Gene was a tool and die machinist by trade and a craftsman in every sense of the word. He had a gift for building, shaping, and creating with his hands. Known for designing and building three-wheel motorcycles, he created machines that were truly in a class of their own. While working for Peterson Manufacturing, he also enjoyed making knives as a hobby, another reflection of his skill, patience, and pride in workmanship. If Gene could imagine it, there was a good chance he could figure out how to build it.
Beyond his work and craftsmanship, Gene was a man full of personality. He was a storyteller, ornery in the best way, funny, stubborn, and unforgettable. He had a way of turning ordinary moments into memories worth keeping. Whether he was sharing a story, teasing someone he loved, or simply sitting back and enjoying the people around him, Gene’s presence filled a room—and often, a porch.
Some of Gene’s favorite pastimes were fishing, hunting, bowling, watching Hallmark movies, enjoying classic westerns and any form of dancing. But above all else, Gene loved his family. He was a family man in every sense of the phrase. He cherished family gatherings, and no holiday meant more to him than the Fourth of July. Years ago, Gene and his beloved wife, Dixie, began hosting family picnics that grew into a cherished tradition carried on by those who loved them. Those summer gatherings became part of the family’s story—days filled with food, laughter, fireworks, familiar faces, and the kind of memories that become a legacy.
Gene’s favorite place in the world was his front porch overlooking the family pond. That porch was more than just a place to sit—it was where family gathered, stories were shared, summer days unfolded, and the people he loved most came together. For those who knew him, it is easy to picture him there: looking out across the pond, surrounded by the life he helped build.
Gene was first married to Pattie Wyman, and from that union came two children, Timothy and Tambrea. He later married Dixie Lee Micheals, with whom he shared 4 children: Gina, Michael, Robert, and Christopher. His family grew to become one of the greatest joys of his life.
Gene was preceded in death by his father, James Walter Atkin; his mother, Norma Jean Atkin; his son, Robert “Robbie” Atkin; his wife, Dixie Lee Atkin; his son, Timothy Ray Atkin; and his daughter-in-law, Mary Atkin.
He is survived by his brothers, Jon Walter Atkin and James Lee Atkin; his children, Tambrea “Tammy” Kirkwood of Kansas City, Missouri; Gina Dalton (Atkin) of Creighton, Missouri; Michael Atkin of Garden City, Missouri; and Christopher Atkin and his wife, Tina, of Creighton, Missouri. He was deeply loved by his 22 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren.
Gene leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind traditions, laughter, stories, handmade treasures, and a family shaped by his love. His life was one of hard work, humor, craftsmanship, and devotion to the people who mattered most. Though his family grieves his passing, they also celebrate the full and meaningful life he lived—a life that will continue to echo in every Fourth of July gathering, every story told on the porch, and every memory made around the family pond.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Friday, July 3, 2026 at the family property.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care in Gene’s memory.
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