ATKINS, A. Fred long time Vassar resident passed away Sunday February 13, 2011 while at the St. Mary’s Medical Center in Saginaw, Fred was 78. Albert Frederick (Fred) Atkins the son of the late Carson & Vera (Runge) Atkins was born in Saginaw Michigan on October 25, 1932. Fred grew up in Vassar and as a youngster he was a Boy Scout and held the distinct honor of being an Eagle Scout, Fred was a 1951 graduate from the Vassar High School, after high school Fred served a tour of duty in the US-Navy. When Fred returned home from the Navy he joined the family business with his brother and father. Fred was co-owner of the Atkins Hardware and Furniture for 59years. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Vassar, served 21 years on the Vassar Fire Department, and served 25 years as the President of the Vassar Fishing Club. Fred love to bowl, fish, play golf, and spend time with family and friends.

Fred leaves his children; Dan Atkins, David & Theresa Atkins, Diane Ford, and Mark & Desiree’ Atkins, grandchildren; Jason & Stephanie, Jill & Dan, Rex, Jacob & Jennifer ,Jessica Steele, Hunter, Taylor, and Chase, great-grandchildren; Bristel, Abbrie, Nicholas, Gabrielle, Emily,, Jordan, and Cuyler, brother and sister in-law; Robert (Bob) & Betty Atkins, close and very dear friend Lois Faber, and several nieces , nephews and extended family and friends.

The Atkins family will receive friends at the Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington on Wednesday from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm. There will be a memorial service on Thursday at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Vassar; there will be a brief time of visitation from 10:00 am until the services begin. Gifts of Remembrance can be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Vassar, Vassar Fire Department or the Vassar Athletic Association.