Thomas Russell Atkinson was born Thursday, May 2, 1946 in Columbus, Ohio .
he died Wednesday, January 5, 2011. his recorded age was 64.
ATKINSON Thomas R. Atkinson, age 64, of Columbus, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday January 5, 2011 at his residence. Tom retired after 31 years of service as a professor of Hotel and Restaurant management at Columbus State Community College. He earned his Bachelors of Science Degree at Denver University and his Masters of Science of Administration from Central Michigan University. Since retiring Tom has consulted with universities and business owners regarding the food and beverage industry. Tom was an avid sports fan and would find time to watch as many games as possible on the TV each day. He was even known to place a wager on his favorite teams after carefully and strategically calculating the projected outcome. He was known for his unique presents at Christmastime that required many hours of thought just finding that special gift for someone. He loved planting and harvesting his vegetables every summer and enjoyed sharing them with others even if the yield consisted of only a few green beans. Tom recently purchased his dream vehicle. a four-door pickup truck but also built a little red sports car many years ago with his father. Preceded in death by father, Donald T. Atkinson, who died just three months ago. Survived by his loving mother, Betty Atkinson; step-mother, Helen Atkinson both of Columbus; sister, Kay Ball (Dan Flynn) of Lewis Center; nephews, Christopher (Kristen) Ball of Westerville and Trevor Ball of Lewis Center; great-nieces and nephew, Cassidy, Katie, Abby and Zach; many lifelong friends, Kristal Moore among them. Friends may call 3-6 p.m. Sunday January 9, 2011 at RUTHERFORD-CORBIN FUNERAL HOME, 515 High Street, Worthington, where Funeral Service will be held 1 p.m. Monday. Rev. David Roberson officiating. Interment Walnut Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to any charity benefitting the homeless in Tom's memory. Please visit www.rutherfordfuneralhome.com to send on-line condolences.