Donald E. Atkins, 87, of Richmond, died Saturday, September 13, 2025, at his home. He was born on December 31, 1937, in Richmond to Samuel Porter and Hester Ridout Atkins and lived here all his life.

He served 20 years on the Richmond Fire Department, including a period as Assistant Fire Chief, and retired as a Lieutenant. From his younger years, he was an entrepreneur selling ice cream and delivering newspapers. He formerly owned Don's Dinette and the Country Rib Eye Restaurant.

Don was a member of the Church of the Brethren, where he volunteered as the Project Director for Brethren Disaster Ministries for ten years. He was a member of the Richmond Firefighters Association, serving on the Board of Directors for ten years and as President for three terms. He served as President of the #1408 Firefighters Union. He was a graduate of Richmond High School and attended Ball State University.

Don is survived by his wife of 32 years, Shirley, three sons, Tony Atkins (Robin Helton), Guntis (Amy) Atkins, and Mark (Rena) Atkins of Richmond, and two step-daughters, Tammie Dunn (Jeff Matthews) of Indianapolis and Debbie Riley of Greenfield, nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

His first wife, Guna, died on February 22, 1992. He is also preceded in death by his two sisters, Joyce Conway and Sharon Schwartz, and his brother Leroy Atkins.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home with Rev. Tony Price officiating. Burial will be in Elkhorn Cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at stegallberheidedorr.com.