Obituary of Richard Atkinson

Richard "Rick" Atkinson, 77, of Long Beach, NY died on December 21, 2025. He was born to John and Grace Atkinson, and grew up in Queens, New York, spending his summers with his large family in Long Beach. He participated in the NYAC Saturday Morning Boys in the early 1950s, and was a passionate clarinetist and lover of music. After completing High School at St. Mary’s in Manhasset, he went on to attend St. John’s University. 

His life path led to many adventures and careers, including (but not limited to) being a "ski bum" and bartender at the Stratton Mountain Inn in Vermont; working with World Series clubs at the Sheraton Hotel; working on Wall Street as a bond broker; running a Ground Round restaurant with his brother-in-law Dan Testerman; and working in finance on Long Island. He was a member of Society of Colonial Wars and Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, and served as President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and co-President of Parish Council at St. Peter’s of Alcantara Catholic Church with his wife, Mary Giordano.

He loved golf, the beach, playing cards, and chatting with friends and family. Known for his sense of style and humor, telling the truth as he knew it, countless stories, and generosity. 

He is loved and survived by his wife, Mary Giordano; children Kelly (Devin), and Joseph; stepchildren Joanna (Noel) and Daniel (Eileen); grandchildren Henry, Vienna, Luciana, Jude, Lillian, and Theodore; siblings Jack (Lora), Jane (William), Pamela (Daniel), Brian (Diane), Jamie (Angela), and Timothy (Lauren); and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.