Bartholomew “Bart” George Atkins

Bartholomew “Bart” George Atkins, aged 69 of Kentwood, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on Saturday, August 6, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Zuzanna Atkins. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 40 years, Roberta; her son, Stephen and Ronda DeVries; grandchildren, Nathan DeVries, Sarah DeVries; and sister-in-law, Claudia Kirkpatrick Sweeney. Bart was a special education teacher in New Jersey for over 35 years. He loved going to flea markets and collecting model railroad trains and equipment. Bart often complained that you could not find a good bagel in Michigan. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11:00 am at St. Mary Magdalen Church, 1253 – 52^nd Street SE, Kentwood, with Fr. Godfrey Onyekwere presiding. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the church on Thursday from 10-11 am prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Lacks Cancer Center.

Leave Your Tribute Message

August 11, 2016

I will miss you dearly my sweet "Dad" you gave it a good fight Now rest in the arms of the one you trusted in all of your life. I will remember your jolly voice never showing your pain I will remember the things you taught me that to my life have been a gain. I love you my Dad until we meet again Enjoy the heavenly bagels that you so deserve my friend! Roberta to you and the family may God grant you comfort and peace. Much love sent your way!

- Millie Andres

August 10, 2016

My deepest sympathy to Bart's family. When I lived up the street from where you taught I sometimes stopped in for a chat and thought this is a caring and patient man for these children. I fondly remember the good times we had working in 4th floor stock & delivering merchandise to the various departments at Hahne's Department Store in Newark NJ. For the good memories I'll toast a beer to your memory Bart. I'm glad our lives once crossed.

- Bill Reilly