CHESTERTOWN, Md. - John C. Atkinson, "Kip" died May 28, 2016 in Compass Regional Hospice Home, Centreville, Md. Kip was born on Oct. 7, 1928 in Rock Hall, Md., son of the late Joshua and Elma Bigelow Atkinson. He was a carpenter for Malone Construction of Still Pond for 32 years, building homes in the area. Kip had a love for animals, especially his pet turtle, he raised for over 20 years, his cat 'Socks' and fish 'Fishey'. He enjoyed gardening and nature. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Bessie Virginia Reed Atkinson; a son, John C. Atkinson, Jr.; a brother Bert Atkinson; a sister, Elizabeth Ashley and great granddaughters, Emma Grace Jester, and Michaela Jester. Kip is survived by his children, Dennis Atkinson, of Ocean City, Md., and Jo Ann Morris, of Federalsburg, Md.; four grandchildren, John C. Atkinson, III, Jennifer Atkinson, Dennis Atkinson, Jr., and Garrie Morris, Jr.; four great-grandchildren; several step-children, including Charles Ray Reed, and his wife Alice; step grandchildren; step great-grandchildren; and a devoted friend Darlene Wiggers, of Millington. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, June 1 at 11 a.m. in Chester Cemetery, Chestertown, Md. Memorials may be offered to Compass Regional Hospice, 255 Comet Dr. Centreville, MD., 21667 or to any Animal charity. Arrangements by Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech. www.galenafuneralhomeofsls.com.