Obituary of Larry Gordon Atkinson

Atkinson: Larry Gordon -

Larry passed peacefully at Chatham-Kent Hospice on Saturday, December 30, 2023, with his family by his side after a year long battle with cancer. Born in Romney Township on September 5, 1939, to Gordon and Helen (nee DeClerk) (predeceased). Larry is survived by the love of his life his wife of 63 years, Doriene (nee Little), four of his five children, Cheryl Heemsbergen (Ric) of Rocky Mountain House, AB, Kelly of Chatham, Jackie Leppard (John) of Uxbridge, Richard (Cheri) of Chatham. Predeceased by daughter Patti (2017). Also survived by three grandchildren Krysten Heemsbergen (Tyler Stephenson) of Calgary AB, Christopher, and Coalton Leppard of Uxbridge, three great grandchildren, Easton, Dallas, and Cooper Stephenson. Predeceased by his sister Linda Renwick (Doug (surviving)) (Tilbury). Survived by close cousin Dennis (Louise) St. Pierre (Tecumseh). Survived by brother and sister in-laws Lyle (Eleanor) Little (Exeter), Arthur (Evelyn) Little (North Gower), Murray (Mary Lou) Little (Blenheim), Leonard (deceased) (Carole) Little, (Chatham), Barry (Sandra deceased) Little (Chatham), Penny (Tom deceased) Fox (Blenheim), Patricia (Pete) Pyne (St. Thomas), Dan (Barb) Little (Smith Falls), Ron (Lorrie) Little (Ridgetown), Terry Little (Ridgetown). Also survived by many nieces and nephews. 

Larry worked in the food service industry as a meat cutter for more than 45 years, ending his career at Bedell’s Frozen Foods in Dover Centre in 2004. 

Larry and Doriene spent the last 57 years in Merlin, where his family meant everything to him. They spent many weekends camping in a small 6 sleeper tent trailer in all kinds of weather. He did not miss any of his children’s softball games, graduations, or special events. 

Larry’s family would like to thank Dr Sultan, Staff of Bayshore Home Care Solutions, Chatham, CK Paramedics, and staff and volunteers at CK Hospice for the care and compassion they showed Larry during his illness. Special thanks to Dennis Schultz for his many visits and Nurse Janelle for her support and tender care. 

Friends and relatives may visit at McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim on Wednesday January 3, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Funeral Services will be conducted at the Merlin United Church, 100 Aberdeen Street, Merlin on Thursday, January 4 at 11:00 a.m., Pastor Eric Skillings presiding, with interment to follow at Pardoville Union Cemetery. Donations to Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, Merlin United Church, or charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

141 Park Street, Blenheim

519-676-3451