GVSU remembers Dick Atkinson

Retired Grand Valley State University chemistry professor Richard "Dick" Atkinson died July 30.

Atkinson came to Grand Valley in 1967 and retired in 2001. He was chair of the Chemistry Department from 1977-1983. He was recognized as an outstanding faculty member in 1991 by the Michigan Association of Governing Boards of Colleges and Universities.

Atkinson was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico and graduated from the University of Chicago. He received a M.A. and Ph.D. from Harvard, studying under Dr. E.J. Corey, the 1990 Nobel Laureate in chemistry. He was a member of the Society of Sigma XI and the American Chemical Society. He was an active member at Park Church where he sang in the choir.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at the Park Congregational Church, 10 East Park Place, Grand Rapids, with Rev. Todd Petty officiating. An online Memory Book is available to be signed at www.cookfuneralservices.com .

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Weldon Chemistry Scholarship at GVSU or the Music Fund at Park Congregational Church.

Atkinson is survived by his wife of 38 years, Margaret; his children Douglas Atkinson and Elizabeth (Brook) Atkinson-Freeman; granddaughter Katherine Atkinson-Freeman; his brother William (Carol) Atkinson Jr.; brother-in-law Richard (Wende) Harper and several nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.