Robert E. Atkinson Jr.

Robert Eugene Atkinson Jr, 77, of Wakefield passed away at his home peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, September 7th, 2025.

He was born in Providence, RI, son of the late Robert E. Atkinson and Theresa (Davey). He was the beloved Husband to Deborah Anne (Renehan) for 54 years.

Bob served his community as a Fire Fighter in Warwick, for 28 years rising to Battalion Fire Chief. As a helicopter aviator he also served his nation in the U.S. Army and RI Army National Guard for 31 years, earning a Distinguished flying cross for heroics saving 22 U.S personnel and 11 Allies with the AMERICAL Division in the Vietnam War. Bob was a fixture in the Matunuck Beach community, He stood up the Matunuck fire department and was their first captain from 1979 to 1982. He enjoyed all aspects of surfing, music and the beach lifestyle his entire life.

Besides his wife, Deb, Bob leaves behind the family who meant the world to him. He is survived by his three sons, Derek and his wife Chika, Mark, Josh and his wife Emily. He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren, Liam, Leila, Benjamin & Daniel. Bob is further survived by his brother, David and two sisters, Theresa & Debora. He is pre-deceased by his brother Kenneth Atkinson.

Visiting hours will be held Monday September 15th, 2025,from 4pm to 7pm at the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St, Wakefield, RI.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on September 16th at 10am in St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 114 High Street Wakefield, RI 02879 with military honors rendered immediately following at the RI Veterans Cemetery in Exeter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel-to-towers foundation.