The funeral service for John Atkison, 78, of Wagoner, was held at 2 PM Friday, February 6, 2009 at the Mallett Funeral Home Chapel in Wagoner. The Reverend Carl Murphy officiated. Interment was in Pioneer Cemetery in Wagoner. The Military Funeral Honor Guard from Tinker Air Force Base provided military honors. Pallbearers were David Cruce, Ken Burgett, Randy Pofahl, Justin ODell, Keith Moses and Russell Pofahl. John Robert Atkison was born May 14, 1930 in Cherokee Township of Wagoner County, Oklahoma to Robert and Georgia (Still) Atkison, who preceded him in death. Following his early education John served his country by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. His Air Force career lasted nearly 24 years, and John retired as Senior Master Sergeant. He became a finance officer for several different Muskogee area companies, including Beneficial Co. and Aetna. John was also very involved in his community. He was a dedicated member of the Lions club and the Chamber of Commerce. John was instrumental in organizing Summerfest and the Childrens Games for many years. He was employed by the City of Wagoner as a Crossing Guard at Ellington Elementary for six years. John passed away Saturday, January 31, 2009 in Owasso, OK. He is survived by his wife, Betty Atkison of the home; his children, Paula Bowley of Muskogee, Jeannie Armbruster of Richmond, Texas, Johnny Atkison of Owasso, Duane Atkison of Tahlequah, Phillip Atkison of Allen, Texas and Melanie LaBar of Plano, Texas; a half-sister, Betty Pearson of Quinton, OK; a half-brother, Bobby Atkison of Wichita Kansas; 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends.