Jerold Ray Atkinson, 45 of California, MD departed this life on August 26, 2013 at MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, MD, after complications with Crohn's disease. Born December 1, 1967 in Minneapolis, MN, he is the son of Gerald Ray Atkinson of Montezuma, KS and the late Kathleen Ann Kitzrow Atkinson.

Jerry was a 1986 graduate of Park Rapids Area High School in Park Rapids, MN. He enlisted in the United States Navy in October 1990, and proudly served his country with 20 years of dedicated service, retiring in October 2010 as a Chief Petty Officer. Jerry was extremely proud of his naval service, serving in Operations from Desert Storm through Operation Enduring Freedom.

He went on to marry his beloved wife Kristie Loucks in Lexington Park, MD.

After retirement he was employed as a contractor with the Department of Defense. He was employed by Lockheed Martin as a Quality Assurance Inspector and by Basic Commerce Industries (BCI) as a Logistics Specialist.

He was an avid fisherman, but his greatest love was for his family. He was actively involved in his children's sports activities and enjoyed spending time with them.

In addition to his father, Gerald Atkinson, Jerold is survived by his loving wife, Kristie Marie Atkinson; his children, Victoria Atkinson of Jacksonville, NC, Brandon Atkinson of California, MD, and Kathleen "Katie" Atkinson of California, MD; and his brother, Keith Atkinson of Minneapolis, MN.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen Atkinson.

Family will receive friends for Jerold's Life Celebration on Friday, August 30, 2013 from 5 to 8 p.m., with prayers recited by Reverend Joe Orlando at 7 p.m., at the Brinsfield Funeral Home, 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. Interment will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.