It is with a resounding sadness that the family of James Terence "Terry" Atkinson announces the passing of their husband father/grandfather/entertainer/role model and coach on February 25, 2023, at the age of 91 years. James Terence (Terry) Atkinson was born September 24, 1931, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He immigrated to Canada in 1953 with his first wife Jeanne Gibson. They settled in Guelph, Ontario where Jeanne delivered their son John in 1957. After Jeanne's passing Terry married Helen Riddolls in 1965. They had two children, Kerry, and Lindsay. Terry leaves behind his wife, Helen, brother Denny (Elinor) in Australia, his sons John (Lee) and Lindsay, daughter Kerry and grandsons Sean and Ryan. Terry was predeceased by his parents Harry & Maggie Atkinson, brothers Ivan and Jack and his sister Grace. Terry's ashes will be interred in St. David's memorial garden at a later date. Cremation has already taken place. Terry was a man that was always full of song and laughter and lived a life in service to his family and community. Through coaching, performing, volunteering, and political service Terry endeavored to make everyplace he lived a happier, louder, more melodic venue. Onstage with the Leduc Drama Society or traveling to nursing homes to sing for the residents, Terry was singing almost as often as he was talking. When answering the phone or meeting someone for the first time he would often find a song or manufacture a tune containing the person's name to briefly serenade them with. When not singing Terry loved to coach and play badminton. He ran the Guelph Jr. Badminton club in the 1970s and started the Leduc Jr. Badminton club upon his arrival in Alberta. After retiring Terry spent 12 years on the Leduc city council where he sought to improve what Leduc had to offer visitors and residents alike. Terry could sing you McBreen's Heifer, he could make you a sailboat in his woodshop, teach you to make a clover with your tongue and wiggle your ears. He loved to learn new things and teach you old things. He was happiest when he was entertaining and would gladly step onto the stage to sing, talk, recite a poem or MC an event. He will be missed! Our family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the staff at the University of Alberta hospital and Extendicare in Leduc. Donations in Terry's name can be made to St. David's United Church, Leduc, or the Alzheimer's society of Canada.Condolences: www.serenity.caSerenity Funeral Service, Leduc (780) 980-3688