Craig Everett Atkinson

Craig Everett Atkinson passed away at his home surrounded by loved ones on June 26, 2026 at

the age of 72.

Craig was born on October 14, 1953 in Murray Utah. His family moved on average every 2 years

and lived in Utah, California and Washington. From a young age Craig had a love of his elder

brother Jesus Christ, and would bring what Christ had done for him in almost every conversation

he had with others. Craig had a love of animals and raised a falcon from a baby until it found a

mate. Craig would talk to his dogs for comfort when he was young. At the age of 14 Craig

moved in with a family to help on their farm and milked cows every morning before school.

Craig graduated from Smithfield, Utah in the early 1970’s.

Craig Married Tamara Jo Smurthwaite on December 7, 1984 and they raised Michael and Katie

until Tamara passed away on December 9, 2000.

Craig Married Kristine Marie Vance on January 5, 2002 and together had his 2 children Michael

and Katie and Kristine’s 5 children Keri, Carla, Amy Jeremy and Walter, and then were blessed

with one of their own Jared Veral Atkinson. Together we enjoyed their children, grandchildren

and taking care of one of heavenly fathers elite children Katie.

After just 2 years of marriage to Kristine, Craig became disabled and focused on his crafts which

included pottery, wood working, wood burning and working on cars with Michael. Craig made

toys for the grandchildren and the highlight of his life was his grandchildren.

Craig had a love of the beach and enjoyed Cannon beach in Oregon.

Craig was preceded in death by his first wife Tamara Jo (Smurthwaite) Atkinson, his Parents Verl

Everett Atkinson and Evelyn Leora (Stoffer) Atkinson and a son Zachary Atkinson.

Craig is survived by his wife Kristine Marie (Vance) Atkinson, Son Michael (Cassie), daughter

Katie Ann Atkinson, and son Jared Atkinson. Bonus children Keri Motley (JD), Carly Luekenga

(Zach), Amy Roundy (Sam), Jeremy Whitlatch (Meghan), Walter Whitlatch and 21

grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday July 11, 2026 at the Church of Jesus Christ of

Latter Day Saints 1560 N Ten Mile Road, Meridian, Idaho.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you please donate to the perpetual education fund of the Church of

Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.