KEITH ELMER ATKINSON, beloved companion and friend of Pauline Swanson, passed away at Foothills Medical Centre on February 12, 2020 at the age of 83, with family at his side.

He is the loving father of Marty (Nancy) Atkinson of Nobleford, Bruce (Lori) Atkinson of Picture Butte, and Cheryl (Randy) Plomp of Lethbridge. Keith leaves behind his grandchildren, whom he loved greatly, Chase (Jaylene) Atkinson, Brooke (Derek) Vance, Kim Atkinson, Curtis Atkinson, Michelle (Jason) Wobick, Robin (Daniel) Beddome, Haley Plomp, and Austin Plomp; as well as his great-grandchildren, Lexi & Luke (Chase), Jaxton & McCoy (Brooke), and Klara & Brady (Michelle). He is also survived by his sister, Marion Irving, his dear friend, Anita Atkinson, and Pauline's family who were very close and dear to him.

He was predeceased by his parents, Blanche & Elmer Atkinson; his siblings, Bob, Gordon, and Kathleen; and his wife, Candace.

Keith was born in Lethbridge and raised on the Atkinson farm, east of Nobleford. He went to Keho and Nobleford Schools, and from Grades 7-12 he attended school in High River. He continued his education at Olds College, where he studied Agriculture. Upon graduating, he worked in the oil field for seven years. Keith married Anita McClain in 1962 and welcomed Marty into their family, which was later completed with the addition of Bruce and Cheryl.

He loved farming, astronomy, the Toronto Blue Jays, the Calgary Flames, the stock market, cats, and his dog, Jasper. Most of all, he loved his family and friends.

Dad will be sadly missed but forever remembered for his kind heart, gentle spirit, sense of humour, storytelling ability, and big smile!

A Celebration of Keith's Life will be held at the ITALIAN CANADIAN CULTURAL CENTRE, 1511 St. Edward Blvd. North, Lethbridge, AB on Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 2:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lethbridge & District Humane Society at www.lethbridgehumanesociety.com/donate.