William H. Atkins, 82, a resident of Green Valley Arizona, and a former resident of Oswego, NY, passed away Thursday, in Arizona.

Bill was born in Clyde, NY, the son of the late William and Elsie (Bower) Atkins. He was a graduate of Clyde-Savannah High School and earned his Bachelor's degree from SUNY-Oswego.

He was a veteran of the United States Coast Guard.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed, for 29 years, as a teacher with the Oswego City School District. He also served as a football coach with the district for many years.

He was a past Exalted Ruler for the Oswego Lodge of Elks.

Bill was an avid sports fan, especially when it came to Syracuse University sports teams.

He is survived by three sons, Mark (Sally) Atkins of Oswego, Paul (Krystal) Atkins of Fulton NY, Kevin (Denise) Atkins of Colonie, NY; four grandchildren, Abigail, Erica, Austin, and Cole; and a very close friend, Lily Boyer of Green Valley, Arizona.

He was predeceased by his wife, Claire Atkins, who died in 2009; a brother, Robert Atkins; and a sister, Eileen Whitaker.

Funeral services in Arizona will be private.

There will be no calling hours.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Garrett Dunsmoor Foundation, 4441 County Route 4, Oswego, NY 13126.