Donald Clark Atkinson, 71, died peacefully at his home in Oak Harbor on March 24, 2007 with his wife of 32 years at his side. He was born Aug. 7, 1935 in Cable, Wis., to Eugene P. and Stella (Womack) Atkinson.

Don was raised in Decatur, Ill. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in May of 1954. He was discharged on January 14, 1958 as an Airman First Class. Following his military service, Don began a career with Federal Civil Service, working as a computer programmer. He worked in Alaska, Seattle and in 1969, came to NAS Whidbey Island. He was married to Joyce Learn in Oak Harbor on May 23, 1975. Don continued his work at the naval air station until retirement in 1990.

Don lived in Anacortes for a time before purchasing farmland in Oak Harbor in 1974. He raised cattle and draft horses. Don was very interested in alternative energy sources and built solar collection and wind generating systems into his home. He was always ready to help anyone in need. He was an extraordinary “tinkerer,” always looking to see how things work or how to make them better.

Don is survived by his wife, Joyce, at the family home; six children, William Atkinson of Spokane, Michael Atkinson and Kimberly Cochran, both of Clearview, Nicholas Atkinson of Seattle, Donald Saddler of Portland, Ore., and Christina Latham of Bellingham; one sister, Nadene Tull of Decatur; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. His parents, one daughter, Dena Saddler in 1988, one brother Paul, Atkinson, preceded him in death.

Private family graveside services were held March 28 at Sunnyside Cemetery, Coupeville. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.