Obituary of Rev. Harvey Atkinson

Rev. Harvey Ray Atkinson of Arnprior at the age of 93, passed away peacefully and was welcomed into Heaven while surrounded by the love and prayers of his family Sunday afternoon, April 7th, 2024.

Beloved and devoted husband for over 60 years to Eleanor Joan (nee Craig). Much loved and respected father of Barb Robillard (John Richard), Ruth Koehler (Michael) and Donna Demitroff (Pastor Bruce).

Cherished and very proud Grandpa of 7 grandchildren: Corey Robillard (Andrea Carrion), Andrew Demitroff (Josée), Matthew Demitroff, Daniel Koehler, Travis Richard, Anthony Robillard and the late Kendra Robillard and 4 great-grandchildren: Claire, Kate, Jack and Hunter (predeceased).

The son of Lorne and Rene (nee McGuire) Atkinson, Harvey was predeceased by his 2 sisters: Viva Newton (late Fred) and Goldie Woolner (late Alvin) as well as his 2 brothers: Mansell Atkinson (Nora) and Vernon Atkinson (Gwen).

Rev. Harvey Atkinson loved his Lord and Saviour. He faithfully served as a pastor for 21 years in Powassan, Ferndale, Massey and Arnprior at the Wesleyan Church and Peterborough at the Nazarene Church. Harvey loved to sing hymns and would sing solos and special music with his family and others during Sunday services. Harvey and Eleanor would often welcome parishioners into their home for meals and fellowship. He and his wife would also frequently visit the elderly. Harvey loved spending time and sharing his faith with the youth and enjoyed coaching the Wesleyan Wings Hockey Team in Arnprior. Harvey also drove the school bus for Renfrew County and in his latter years worked for the Town of Arnprior.

Harvey enjoyed working in his garden, fishing and cheering on the Maple Leafs. He was known around town as being cheerful, friendly and kind. He often had a joke to share with friends and strangers that he would meet during his walks. Harvey will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.

The Atkinson family would like to thank Granite Ridge Nursing home for their excellent care during his time there. They also would like to thank his two caregivers Pamela and Kate who visited him faithfully and brought him much joy.

Thank you also to Dr. Gordon for his many years of attending to Harvey.

A special thank you goes out to the Heart Institute in Ottawa who treated Harvey after he had a major heart attack, allowing him to have many more years with his family.

Final arrangements were entrusted to the care of the

Pilon Family Funeral Home and Chapel, 50 John Street North, Arnprior

where the family received friends on Friday evening, April 19^th from 7:00 to 9:00pm and again on Saturday morning, April 20^th from 9:30 to 10:40am.

A Service in celebration of the life of Rev. Harvey Atkinson followed in the Pilon Family Chapel at 11:00am.

The service was webcast live for those unable to attend.

Private interment at Albert Street Cemetery, Arnprior.

A reception was held at Gateway Church, 128 Mary Street, Arnprior. All are invited to attend.

In memory, a donation made to the Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County; the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or Gateway Church, Arnprior would be most appreciated by the family.