Willard Sedwick Atkin

ATKIN - Willard Sedwick Atkin, 86, passed away at home in Arcadia, California on August 14, 2011. An honorable man whose wisdom and humility inspired so many to be better, and to work to do the right thing every day even though and especially when it might be hard. Spending time with him you became better - a better person, friend, citizen, patriot, family member and definitely a better golfer. He could do pretty much anything, he was a fireman. His handshake was more binding than any contract. He was always honest with you in a world where truths are sometimes obscured by rhetoric - few words but full of wisdom and his honest opinion. His family and extended family were his life. When asked what the meaning of life is, his answer was simply “family”. He served honorably during WWII in the 8th Air force, 34th Bomber group, 391st squadron, 93rd wing. He continued in the Air Force for several years after the war until he left to join the Kansas City Fire Department. In 1955, he moved with his wife Jean and his young family to California where he became a member of the Los Angeles City Fire Department and retired after 25 years in 1980. He served his country and his community with quiet courage and an unassuming personality that just radiated competence. For 20 years he lived in the harbor area, Wilmington and then Carson. In 1976, Will and Jean moved to Lake of the Woods in the mountains, which they both loved. When they could no longer stay in the mountains, they moved to Sierra Madre, where for 7 years they brought the Piney House to life. They moved to Arcadia in 2003. Though he will be profoundly missed, we will continue to love him and carry him in our hearts always. He rests in peace and love. Willard is survived by his children, Carolyn (Lloyd) Gardner, Shirley (Claude) Farris, Kathay (David) Edmondson; grandchildren, Jill (Zack) Sweaney, JoAnna Gardner, Matthew Woolsey, Brian Farris, Sean Clouser; great grandchildren, Mitchell, Tanner, Cody, and Savannah. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 27 at 11:00 AM at Douglass & Zook Chapel of Remembrance.