Obituary of Frank James Atchison

Francis James Atchison

June 15, 1926-December 20, 2023

Francis James Atchison, the cherished only child of George and Jessie (nee Cross), will once again be reuniting at the pearly gates of Heaven with his parents, his infant daughter Gale Patricia and all his other loved ones who have gone before him, creating a heavenly celebration that will be forever eternal. He is survived by his wife Martha (nee Miller), three children Donald (Mardele), Douglas and Debora and fifteen grandchildren Carrie (Devon), Jason, Brielle (Greg), Donald James Jr. (Sabine), Aria (Richard), Mitchel (Sazi), Kennedy (Connor), and Blaire (Nick). In addition to eleven great-grandchildren.

Our Dad lived a life as rich and vibrant as the beautiful Saskatchewan landscapes he traveled as a locomotive engineer for the Canadian National Railway for 34 years. He retired from the CNR in 1984 with the second most seniority in Canada at that time. His dedication extended beyond the railroads as he, alongside his beloved Martha, owned four men’s wear stores, three jean stores and a tuxedo store in Saskatoon and North Battleford. He retired from the business at the young age of 91. Dad had a tremendous respect for everyone in the military service. He served in World War II and was on prisoner detail. He had immense admiration for the military men and women who faced armed conflict.

Our parents shared a love story that lasted for 79 years. It all began on a dance floor in Regina as teenagers. Our mom was originally not interested, however, dad found out her address and my mom said how could she turn him down when he showed up at her door. His persistence won her heart and they eventually married at just 18 and 19 years old on August 12, 1944.

His infectious laughter echoed through his tales and jokes, leaving a legacy of laughter and joy. He had an unparalleled ability to connect with people, making friends wherever he went. His generosity knew no bounds, whether it was helping stranded travelers at the side of a highway or supporting those in need.

A devoted Mason and Shriner who also was a member of the Royal Arch and Scottish Rites, he was known for his unwavering commitment to community service. Every summer he could be seen behind the Shriner’s Booth selling tickets for either a car or a boat with the money going to charity. Our dad also started Memory Boxes for families who had lost children just before or after their birth. His legendary walk from Saskatoon Masonic Temple to Regina for his 95th birthday culminated at the Saskatchewan Legislature on June 15, 2021. Our dad walked every inch of the way and raised over $130,000 for the Shriners Hospital for Children and the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital.

Beyond his professional and charitable pursuits, he had a deep love for sports, particularly baseball, football, hockey and curling. A passionate gardener, he tended to his garden until the age of 95, creating bountiful harvest that kept our Mom busy with pickling.

His love for sweet treats was as delightful as his jokes. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary soul, let us remember our Dad, Francis James Atchison, for the laughter he shared, the lives he touched, and love that defined his 97 years of a life well-lived. The warmth of his stories and the camaraderie he shared will forever linger in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.

The Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 1:30 pm at Saskatoon Funeral Home followed by a reception at the Masonic Lodge & Shrine Club. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Frank’s Memory to the Shrine Patient Transportation Fund (2065 Hamilton St. Regina, SK S4P 2E1).