Gary Atkins

Gary Lee Atkins, 83, passed away on March 23, 2022, after a brief battle with cancer.  He was born on August 16, 1938, in Denver, Colorado to Leland and Rhea Atkins.

Gary met the love of his life, Marian, and they were married on February 10, 1958.  Their union gave them a daughter and son, Michelle Ann and Chris Allen.

In 1962 Gary was drafted into the United States Army and served as a weapons Infantryman.  He took great pride in serving his country but did not seek out any benefits due to his high respect to those that had been active in war and needed assistance much more than himself.

Gary spent the majority of his career with The Colorado Department of Transportation as a heavy equipment operator.  In March of 1980, Gary and his co-worker, Warren Zuber, received the Employees Meritorious Suggestions (GEMS) program award presented, at the time, by Governor Lamm for designing and building a modification to snow removal equipment.  This new design/invention saved the department a tremendous amount of money.

Gary’s main hobby was restoring two classic cars and attending many car shows with his family and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife Marian, a son at birth, parents Leland and Rhea Atkins, Grandson Dillon Zuber, and his brother Ron.  He is survived by his daughter Michelle (Matt) Zuber; son Chris Atkins, four Grandchildren; six Great Grandchildren; and numerous friends.

Gary will be missed for his salty personality, love of telling jokes, and for always having a nice cold beer while having “safety meetings in the shop”.

The funeral service will be held on April 7, 2022, 10:00, at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home in Aurora, Colorado.  Gary has requested to dress down, meaning jeans are appropriate. A procession will follow to Ft. Logan Cemetery.  The family would appreciate if friends with classic vehicles attend the procession. His celebration will be at The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA 39) located at 15821 E. Centretech Circle, Aurora, Colorado.  Please join the family for food, drinks, and good stories.

Flowers are appreciated or a donation to the Children’s Hospital in memory of Dillon Zuber.