Nathan Ryan Atkinson

NATHAN RYAN ATKINSON
On September 5, 2020 Nathan Ryan Atkinson of Belton, MO, left this world and entered into heaven at the age of 27.
Nathan (also affectionately known as “Nate Dogg”) was born on July 1, 1993, in Kansas City, MO to Rick and Susan (Meeks) Atkinson. From a very young age, he had an exceptionally caring heart and a passion to help others. He enthusiastically participated in any church functions or worship services. He was known as a “walking miracle” due to surviving a serious fall and brain tumor as a child. He also displayed a knack for technology and mechanics; when a TV system needed to be set up, or when an RC car needed to be taken apart, Nathan would eagerly volunteer his services.
In his teenage years, he worked at Papa John’s Pizza. He played on the Grain Valley High School football team and graduated in the class of 2012. On August 9, 2013, he and Diamond Herrera became the proud parents of a son, Leo Nathan Atkinson. Nathan proposed to Diamond on a boat in Florida in July of 2016, and they married on November 13, 2016 in Avenue Family Church of Kansas City. The following year, on October 10, 2017, they welcomed another son, Wyatt Ryan Atkinson. His happiest moments in life were spent with his family, particularly his two sons.
Nathan was knowledgeable, determined, and hardworking. He always strove to give 100% at any task; this was demonstrated -and recognized – with his employment at JC Penney. He began working in the warehouse in 2013, and was promoted to an IT position, and ultimately to his current role as IT Manager. He was also an entrepreneur; he started his own microgreens business and pursued a budding music career. His knowledge for design was utilized to create a showroom for Shamerrific Shine Auto Detailing. He would truly do anything for anyone, anytime.
As his birthday was on July 1, he happily celebrated each year with lots and lots of fireworks. No matter if he was camping, spending time in the mountains, or enjoying an outdoor concert, his soul was at peace in nature.
Nathan is survived by his wife Diamond Herrera; two sons Leo and Wyatt; parents Rick and Susan Atkinson; siblings Chris Atkinson (wife Heather), Jason (wife Jana) Atkinson, Angela Schilling (husband Trevor), and Kelaiah Atkinson (fiancé Brian Kraemer); maternal grandmother Phyllis Meeks; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family; and beloved companion, Mia the pit bull.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Billy Meeks, paternal grandparents Jerry and Cindy Atkinson; and uncle James Atkinson.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, September 13, from 5-7pm, with a funeral service on Monday, September 14, at 11am, both at Avenue Family Church, 522 Jackson Ave., KCMO 64124.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)