Andrew Marlo Atkinson

Andrew Marlo Atkinson “Andy” was called home and reunited with his sweetheart, Mary, on January 3, 2025. He passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family and friends. He was 89 years old.

Born on June 6, 1935, in Malad, Idaho, Andy was the youngest child of Andrew and Edith Atkinson. He grew up in Samaria, Idaho, alongside his two sisters, Ellerene and Nadine. Andy often mentioned being born in his grandmother Hughes' living room. He graduated from Malad High School in 1953 and spent his early years helping on his father’s farm.

He married Isabel Davis in August of 1953, they had three daughters: Marla Jo (Bill) High, Mary Ellen (Brian) Hawk, and Kathy Atkinson (Calvin Williams). They later divorced in July 1963.

He met the love of his life Mary Elizabeth Bass in Pocatello, Idaho. They were married on June 10, 1967, at the First Presbyterian Church in Idaho Falls. Together, they shared a loving and devoted partnership for 55 years and raised two daughters, Andrea Atkinson and Cori (Pule) Alo. 

Andy worked as a lineman for Southern California Edison in Covina California, for two years before returning to Idaho to work for Idaho Power Company. He said the best thing about California was looking at it in the rearview mirror. He exceled as a lineman and foreman. The work was tough, but the brotherhood with his coworkers lasted a lifetime. He retired from Idaho Power Company in 1994 as the Eastern Division Supervisor. Known for his hard work and honesty, Andy also dedicated countless hours to working on his farm. A special thanks to John and Bonnie Price and their sons Jeremy and JC Price for helping him over the last few years with his horses and farmland. 

Throughout his life, Andy was deeply committed to his family and valued the meaningful connections he built with those around him. During the 55 years of marriage, he and Mary enjoyed bowling, horse racing, trap shooting, boating, four wheeling, camping with family and close friends and an unconditional love for their children and grandchildren. 

He cherished time spent with his grandchildren—Wyatt Andrew Cellan, Tommy Cellan, Sara (KC) Weitman, JD Elmore, Dalton Dieter, Andrew “Davin” Atkinson (Misty Knight), Lia Eileen Bremer, Breanna Hawk, AJ Sloup, Zaydin Alo, McKenzee Sloup, and Zeadryk Alo—and great-grandchildren Sammy Weitman, Kyler Weitman, and Keegan Dieter. Whether attending their sporting events or watching live streams online, Andy’s love for his family was unwavering. After Mary’s passing in 2022, Andy found joy visiting friends at the Mason Jar and going to breakfast at Olivers. His family extends heartfelt thanks to Teresa and her staff at the Mason Jar and the waitresses at Oliver’s for their kindness and care.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and both sisters. 

Andy’s legacy of love and dedication lives on through his family and all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W Chubbuck Road, Chubbuck, Idaho.  A viewing will be held prior beginning at 10:00 am.  Burial will follow at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, 2864 S 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.

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