Loss of a colleague | Dr. Sean Atkins

It is with great sadness that we convey the news of the passing of Dr. Sean Atkins, partner of Dr. Christine Massing, who passed away late afternoon on Friday, April 14, surrounded by his loved ones and family.

A Memorial Gathering for Sean will take place this Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. at La Rotunda, LI 216 of the University of Regina.

The following is Sean Atkins’ obituary:

Sean Howard Atkins, PhD

April 20, 1969 – April 14, 2017

Sean passed away in Regina after a mercifully short illness. His passing will be mourned by his beloved wife Christine Massing and dear son Devin Atkins; parents Allan Atkins (Gail) and Andrea Atkins: brothers Ashley (Sunshine), Brent, and Harrison Atkins; and his in-laws Carole and Duane Massing. Sean was a devoted husband and father and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and by his former and present students and colleagues at U of A, MacEwan University, and U of R.

Sean spent his growing years in Toronto. He treasured his years attending and working in summer camps where he developed a passion for canoe tripping and hiking. An inveterate historian, he took his BA at McGill, his MA and PhD at U of A, and his BEd at OISE. Sean was a scholar and committed teacher; a man in constant and restless search for meaning in life and for understanding of his place and responsibility to the earth. He loved being in the Rockies and coming to the cabin in Nordegg. He and Christine travelled the globe for many years, teaching and learning about many diverse cultures. He was a voracious reader and avid music fan, especially the Grateful Dead. Sean’s sudden passing leaves a space of silence that was so recently filled with lively conversation and colorful commentaries on a wide range of topics. We are very grateful to the physicians and nursing staff at Pasqua Hospital for their highly skilled and dedicated care of Sean in his final days, and to the many friends and colleagues who have offered so much support.

Celebration of life April 19, 4:00 pm, Room LI216 La Rotunda, U of R.

Donations may be made in Sean’s name to University of Regina Faculty of Education. https://www.uregina.ca/giving