[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 13 (Wednesday, January 22, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING JERRY ATKINSON

 Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart 
to honor and commemorate the extraordinary life of Jerry Atkinson, who 
sadly passed away in California, while visiting his grandkids, on 
December 24, 2024. A proud Illinoisian, his insurance business, and 
dedication to helping others supported many Illinois families plan and 
secure their futures.
  Born to Bill and Aileen Atkinson on November 28, 1955, Jerry grew up 
in Westchester, IL. In Westchester, he forged and maintained lifelong 
friendships that meant the world to him. Some of his fondest childhood 
memories include George's Standard Service baseball team, games of Off-
The-Wall, and all things baseball. He loved sports and was a loyal 
Bears and White Sox fan.
  Jerry had a huge heart and was blessed with great empathy for others. 
He faced adversity in his own life and was always willing to help 
anyone and would literally give the shirt off his back to a person in 
need.
  Jerry led a successful agency in the western suburbs, where he gave 
many Illinois families access to affordable coverage.
  Jerry met his loving wife of 43 years, Dawn, at work. They started 
dating and got married on April 4, 1981, at Christ the King Catholic 
Parish in Lombard. Soon after, they welcomed their children Kevin and 
Leah into the world. Jerry's heart expanded even more with the births 
of his grandchildren Silas and Sage.
  He was always grateful for his family's strong, loving bond. He is 
survived by Dawn; Kevin and Leah, with spouse Jeff; Silas and Sage; 
siblings Mary Lynn Cali and Bill Atkinson with spouses Phil and Sandy, 
Dan Atkinson with spouse Mary Ann, and John Atkinson with spouse 
Bonnie; 11 nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews.
  Jerry's passing at the age of 69 marks the end of a life filled with 
love, passion, and dedication. His legacy lives on through his 
children, grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched.
  I ask my colleagues in the Senate to join me in honoring the life and 
legacy of Jerry Atkinson for his unwavering love for his family and his 
lifelong commitment to service. His story is one of love and compassion 
that we can all strive towards.

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