William Richard Atkinson, 73, lovingly known to friends and family as Bill, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 31, 2022. He was born in Aurora on December 17, 1948. Bill was a proud American and served in the U.S Army, honorably discharged after completing his term. He went on to become a Jack of all Trades and held many occupations over the years. He was most famously known for his avid poker playing. He was preceded in death by his parents Richard J. and Mary Ivonne Atkinson. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Phyllis Atkinson; his two brothers Frank (Janet) Atkinson and Michael (Tammy) Atkinson; his two sisters Kathleen (James) McCrimmon and Michele Atkinson; his two daughters Melissa Leitheit and Samantha (Shawn) Torres; his two granddaughters Megan Leifheit and Sydney Torres; and his two grandsons Devin Torres and Maxwell Leifheit. The family would like to express their appreciation to the caring staff of Transitions Hospice for their wonderful care and support to Bill during his illness. A Memorial will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday April 9, 2022 at the Carlson Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Road, Joliet. A short service will follow at 11:00 am.