Darrell Dean Atkinson

Darrell Dean Atkinson, 95, our Sunshine and our definition of love and kindness went home to the Lord on October 29, 2024 at Compass Park, (Masonic Home) Franklin, IN.  He previously lived in Plainfield, IN first locating there in 1956.  Darrell was born in Brazil, IN on March 9th, 1929 to the late George and Mabel (Medo) Atkinson.  He was also preceded in death by his 10 year old son, Ronald D. (Ronnie) Atkinson and his wife of almost 64 years, Carol J. (Davis) Atkinson; also  brothers and sister-in-laws, Lester Martin, Charles "Butch" Davis (Mary Ann), Robert Davis (Wanda), Mick Davis (Sandy) and Fred Davis (Sharon).  Darrell graduated from Brazil High School in 1947 and attended Indiana Teachers College (Indiana State University).  In 1951 he began his 40 year career at Detroit Diesel Allison (General Motors), retiring in 1991.  Prior to retirement he also worked part time at Galyan's Trading Post.  Never one to sit idle after his retirement from General Motors, Darrell obtained his realtors license and worked as a realtor and later he worked may years at Mitch's Incredible Ace Hardware in Plainfield.  As a young boy, Darrell first developed a love of music after learning to play accordion, followed by the trombone.  As a teenager he was invited to play trombone with The Jackson Township Community Band (JCTB) in Brazil, IN.  He continued to be a member of the band for well over a decade.  The JCTB was sponsored by the American Legion and proudly marched in numerous parades throughout the United States.  The band also played at many festivals, holidays and other special events.  Darrell's love of music never faded, as in his later years he taught himself to play the organ.  He loved singing and playing his old sheet music.  A favorite was singing and playing "You Are My Sunshine" to those he cherished.  Darrell was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and received the prestigious God and Country award and ultimately earned the rank of Eagle Scout.  He was a true gentleman and honored the Boy Scout oath and law throughout his life.  Darrell was also a Master Mason and was a member of the Plainfield Masonic Lodge for 70 plus years.  As a child Darrell developed a very strong faith and love of God that continued to grow stronger throughout his life.  Just weeks prior to his death he could still recite by memory all the books of the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, as well as many other Bible verses.  Darrell is survived by his son, Loran K. (Gary) Atkinson; daughter, Carolyn L. "Lori" (Steve) Wodtke; 3 grandchildren, Heather (Wodtke) (Jr) Slavens, Jayson Wodtke, Derek (Jamie) Wodtke; 6 great grandchildren, Hailey, Colton, Lincoln, Jolene, Rosie and Elaina; sisters, Marietta Martin, Kathleen (Don) Wilkey; sister-in-law, Connie Wigley.  Also surviving are many loving nieces and nephews.  In honoring Darrell's wishes there will be no services or visitation.  The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.  In lieu of flowers a donation can be made in memory of Darrell to: Jackson Township Community Band Incorporated, 8924 North Kennedys Crossing Road, Brazil, IN 47834, in care of (Band Director), Matthew S. Huber.  Arrangements by Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.