Daniel Aaron Atkins, 71, slipped away from his Keller, Washington, home to meet his Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face early Tuesday morning, April 11, 2017. Born Thursday, July 19, 1945, into the Oroville, California, home of Lester Virgil and Doris Virginia Atkins, Daniel attended high school in Paradise, California, and completed his requirements for graduation through night school courses in Chico, California.

On Monday, October 8, 1962, Daniel's life changed forever, when he was united in marriage to Miss Priscilla Merino, in Chico. A devout member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Daniel's life revolved around his strong faith and firm belief in God. In Chico, Daniel loved the exhilaration of riding his blue Yamaha 350 - jumping irrigation canals and picnic tables. A trucker who at various times owned his own rigs, over the years Daniel hauled everything from logs to rocket parts. He enjoyed traveling - visiting new places and getting to know people from all over; however, he always most looked forward to rolling into his home driveway.

Daniel's greatest love was always spending time with his family - camping, fishing, during bi-annual family reunions, watching his son, Jon, performing magic tricks, and showing the kids how to build and fly a kite. Daniel had many interests…- he enjoyed playing the guitar, sewing, macramé, woodworking and working with leather. Daniel enjoyed the show "Alf" and treasured the stuffed "Alf" he was given as a gift,…which goes to show another aspect of his personality which all of those who knew Daniel will never forget: – his sense of humor.

Predeceased by both of his parents; son-in-law, Vernon Eugene Stace; siblings: Meridel Smith, Lester Atkins, Richard Atkins, Dave Atkins, Zane Atkins and Stanley Atkins. Daniel's legacy lives on through his beloved wife and life partner of 64 years, Priscilla Atkins; children: Bridgette Yvonne Stace, Jon Daniel Atkins (Billie Jo Bray), Erin Cammille Ogle (Kenny Bray), Kristin Elizabeth Atkins, Celeste Ann Brewer (Paul C.) and Casey Andrew Atkins; 23 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert "Bob" A. Atkins (Shirley); sister, Kathleen Craft (Marty), and innumerable nephews and nieces.

At Daniel's request, cremation has taken place. A family celebration of his life will take place at a future date.

Please sign his online register book at http://www.stratefuneralhome.com. Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, WA, is in care of arrangements.