Obituary of Thomas Pete Atkinson

Thomas Pete Atkinson, 66, was born January 16, 1951 and passed away Wednesday, March 15, 2017. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Myrtle Atkinson. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, LaVonne Atkinson; daughters, Sarah Powell and husband, Cameron, Dr. Stephanie Herrera and husband, Vincent, Amy Tilford and husband, Tim; brother, Melvin Atkinson and wife, Clara; sisters, Eileen Velky, Mary Fisher and husband, Daryle; grandchildren, Forrest, Simon Thomas, Zachery, Benjamin, Luke, Jacob, Sophia LaVonne, Vivian and many beloved family members and dear friends. Tom grew up in Chamberlain, South Dakota and graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1969. He earned the Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from Northern State University and spent the next three years teaching high school mathematics and coaching. Tom earned the Master of Arts Degree in Mathematics from the University of South Dakota. His subsequent career included Donnelley Marketing and Reliant Energy. He was most recently President of Ideal Direct Marketing Execution Consultants, Inc. A wonderful husband, father and grandfather, Tom was an excellent provider for his family. He and LaVonne loved to travel and had recently enjoyed a trip to Israel to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary. He was affectionately known as Papa to all of his grandchildren whom he often visited and shared his love for the outdoors. Tom enjoyed golfing, hunting on the family farm, bike rides with family and friends, and yard work. He was well known for the loving care of his cherished dachshunds: Wrangler, Dasha and Freddie. Tom and LaVonne volunteered with an equestrian program at Soléana Stables to support children with special needs. Tom will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A visitation for Tom will be held Sunday, March 19, 2017 from 5:00 until 8:00 pm at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581. The funeral service will take place Monday, March 20, 2017 at 10:00 am at First United Methodist Church, 2314 N. Grand Blvd., Pearland, Texas 77581 with Rev. David Goran officiating. Tom would be honored for you to make a donation in his name to Soléana Stables www.soleanastables.org or to the charity of your choice.