Gene Atkinson

Dr. Gene Atkinson passed away on October 18, 2008 in San Antonio, Texas. He was 83 years old. nbspGene was born June 20, 1925, in Houston. He graduated from Milby High School, received his Bachelor of Arts in physics from Rice University and earned his Masterrsquos and Doctor of Education degrees from the University of Houston. nbspHe served as Associate Dean of Instruction and professor of physical science at California State College at Long Beach, before returning to join the faculty at the University of Houston. At UH, Gene served as Associate Dean of the College of Education, Assistant Dean of Faculties, Office of the Executive Vice President and Dean of Faculties. He was also Chairperson for the Department of Administration and Supervision, and Director for the Center for International Education, College of Education. He served on numerous committees involved in research and accreditation of university programs throughout Texas.nbspnbspGene traveled abroad to assist in the establishment of university programs in France, Brazil and Mexico. He was very active as an amateur radio enthusiast, with the call letters K5AZ. nbspAfter retirement, he served several terms as an elected member of the Ingram, Texas Independent School District School Board. He was very active in committee work and teaching at the First United Methodist Church of Kerrville.nbspnbspGene retired from the Naval Reserve with the rank of Commander. He served in World War II and the Korean War.nbspnbspGene was predeceased by his wife Claudene Douglas Atkinson, his father Smith Bachman Atkinson, mother Nellie Shaffer Atkinson, and sister Donna Lee Atkinson.nbsp nbspHe is survived by his second wife, Vivian Shaw Atkinson, his son, Mark Douglas Atkinson and daughterinlaw Vicki, as well as grandsons, Richard Evans Bowen, Jacob Austin Bowen, Joshua Earl Bowen and Samuel Douglas Atkinson, sisters Ruth Atkinson Vetter and Beverly Atkinson Booher and brotherinlaw, Cletis Booher. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Glenna Shaw Garcia and husband Edmundo, Suzanne Claire Hamilton and husband Allen, Stuart Dunlop Shaw and wife Kimi, and Vivianrsquos grandchildren. nbspnbspMemorial service will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, October 25, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church, Kerrville, Texas. nbspMemorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church Fund, 321 Thompson Drive, Kerrville, Texas 78028 or to a charity of onersquos choice.nbspnbsp

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