Lewis Letts Atkinson, III
On November 29, 2023, Lewis Letts Atkinson, III, said goodbye to his wife, Eva, of 43 years, his sons, Ian and Luke, his daughter-in-law, Blair, and one of his "most precious gifts," his grandson Wilder.
Lew was born in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, to Bud and Betty Atkinson in 1949. While attending David & Elkins College, Lew was a two-time NAIA national soccer champion. He received a Doctorate in Education from Temple University and was a lifelong educator, serving as the Associate Secretary of Education for the State of Delaware for 16 years, and testifying before the United States House of Representatives on national education legislation.
Given his remarkable career in education, it is noteworthy that he will be remembered by most as a beloved soccer coach. Lew spent many happy years on soccer fields, coaching, teaching, and making wonderful friends. He is one of those lucky few who turned his passion into his profession, ending his decorated coaching career on the United States Soccer National Instructional Staff.
Lew was instrumental in developing youth soccer in Delaware. He was the Director of Coaching for the Delaware Youth Soccer Association for nearly twenty years and coached countless teams long after his own sons stopped competing. His service to the beautiful game has been recognized many times over, including his receipt of the prestigious Dr. Thomas Fleck Award for Excellence in Youth Coaching Education and the Charlotte Marian Award for Long Term Service to Youth Soccer, among other awards. He is an inductee into the Davis & Elkins College Athletic Hall of Fame and the United States Youth Soccer Region I Hall of Fame.
Lew often said, he was such a lucky man to have a wonderful family and so many dear friends. He will be sorely missed.
Letters of condolence may be sent, and guestbook signed at www.torbertfuneral.com