Theodore L. "Teddy" Atkinson, 89, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on Thursday May 3, 2012 in Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Born in Buffalo, NY he was the son of the late Robert and Theodora (Fechner) Atkinson.


Teddy was a lifelong resident of the Niagara Falls area. He attended local schools and graduated from the former LaSalle High School. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant with Company B 79th Engineer Construction Battalion from January 13, 1943 until his honorable discharge on January 12, 1946. He was involved with campaigns in New Guinea and Luzon, Philippines and was awarded the American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, Philippine Liberation Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal for his service. Teddy was employed at the Olin Chemical Company in Niagara Falls, NY and retired in 1986 after thirty seven years of service. While at Olin he was an active member and served as a past president of their union He was also a member of the American Legion LaSalle Post 1142 in Niagara Falls. Teddy liked playing euchre and for many years participated in various area matches. He also loved going to the Casino and playing the instant scratch off lottery tickets. He enjoyed the outdoors and when he was younger he especially liked going deer hunting with his sons. Teddy had a unique sense of humor and an entertaining quick wit that was appreciated and loved by everyone who met him from children to adults.

Teddy is survived by his wife of sixty five years Betty (Myers) Atkinson, three sons Gregory (Dorothy) Atkinson, Gary Atkinson both of Niagara Falls, NY and Gavin (Terry) Atkinson of The Woodlands, TX; six grandchildren Megan (Ty) Weis, Erin (Timothy) Gelhar, Gavin Atkinson, Rhonda (Shawn) Vekich, Randall (Rushia) Coughenour and Renee (Jason) McKenzie, nine great grandchildren, his sister-in-law Ruth Cheetham of Niagara Falls, NY and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by one brother Robert (Alyce) Atkinson.

Visitation will be on Sunday from 4 – 8 p.m. at the M.J.COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will be held on Monday May 7th at 10 a.m. with Rev. Duane R. Klizek officiating. Interment with Military Honors will be in North Ridge Cemetery, Cambria, NY. Memorial donations may be made to V.A. Western New York Healthcare System, 3495 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215.