He was a graduate of Brady High School in Nebraska and of the University of Nebraska with a Bachelor of Architecture in 1955. Jim served two years in the Army reserves as a First Lieutenant in Korea. After his return to the states, he settled in Portland.

Jim was an achitect in four firms in Portland. In his third firm, he became a partner in 1969, Hewlett Jamison Atkinson Luey Architects through 1985. From 1986 to retirement in 1995 Atkinson partnered with the firm Gazley Plowman Atkinson architects, known as GPA Architects LLC. During his long career he served as the principal architect on projects for Oregon State University, Pacific University, Umpqua Community College, Beaverton School District, Hood River School, Portland Public Schools, City of Gresham, Tualatin Valley Water District and Sisters of St. Mary of the Valley to name a few.

Jim enjoyed challenging his mind and spent many hours learning about history, especially British history. He was also intrigued with words and was a master at crossword puzzles.

Jim was loved by his extended family and many memories were shared during vacations on the Oregon coast and his trips back to Colorado and Nebraska.

Jim Atkinson is survived by his sister, Maxine Fickenscher; his niece Nancy, Gerrard; his nephews, Tim Fickenscher and Tom Fickenscher; their spouses, all living in Nebraska; seven grandnieces and nephews; a great-grandniece; two great-grandnephews; and many friends.

His remains will be buried at Fort McPherson Cemetery in Nebraska.

Memorials may be sent to the Brady Public School Foundation (P.O. Box 58, Brady, NE 68123) or the Multnomah County Library (The Library Foundation, 620 S.W. 5th Ave, Suite 1025, Portland, OR 97204, or www.libraryfoundation.org )