Sonny “Lawrence” Atkinson, 84, of Willow River, Minnesota, born January 4, 1942, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his wife and family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Sonny grew up in Oliver, Wisconsin, where he met his childhood sweetheart, Jeanne Cragin. They married in 1963 and together built a life in Oliver for many years before moving to the countryside in the Town of Superior.

He proudly served in the Army National Guard, Red Arrow Division, as a constructionman where he was deployed to Washington State during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Sonny was a hardworking man who could “Sonny rig” anything. He spent his career employed at various industries in the Twin Ports; including The Duplex, Steel Plant, National Iron, Diamond Tool, and Kimmes Construction, where he retired. Though he worked many years in industry, he was a farmer at heart. Over the years, he raised many animals, including goats, rabbits, chickens, horses, Angus cattle, and Scottish Highlanders.

He loved the outdoors and spent much of his time hunting and trapping. After retirement, Sonny enjoyed bargain hunting and selling at flea markets where he had the “gift to gab.” He also enjoyed going to the Superior YMCA for fitness and the company of pool pals.

Sonny was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Atkinson; brother, Jerry; sisters, Hope and Jett; brother and sister Dick and Virgina Closson.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Atkinson; his children, Jannette (Andrew) Wilson, Lisa (Marc) Erickson, LoriAnn (Craig) Spice, Jerry (Julie) Atkinson; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild on the way - all of whom brought great joy to his life.  Also, brothers, Robert (Marilyn) Atkinson, Ralph “Frog”(Bonnie) Atkinson; sister, April (Manuel) Atkinson; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Sonny will be remembered for his strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, devotion to his family, and the simple joys he found in everyday life. He will be greatly missed.

Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 (1:00pm – 4:00p.m.) Town of Superior, Town Hall - 4917 WI-35, Superior WI. 54880.

A special thank you to Aspirus St. Luke’s Oncology Clinic and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Twin Ports Clinic for their exceptional care.