James A. Atkins, age 69, of Genoa City, WI and formerly Beloit, WI, died on Thursday, November 3, 2022. Son of the late Floyd Atkins and Wilma Evans, James was born on December 11, 1952 in Rockford, IL. James served his country in the United States Army from 1972 through 1974. He was stationed in Germany and worked as a cook. For nearly 20 years and until retirement, James worked as a punch-press operator for ACM Metals. In his free time, James enjoyed antiquing and collecting old cars. He also loved Lord of the Rings and Mary Jane. James was an avid Chicago Bears fan who was vehemently anti-Packers. James was a hardworking, generous, and kind man who was helpful to everyone. He loved his daughter, Julia, his "unofficial adopted daughter," Misty, and her children, above all else.

James is survived by daughters, Julia Atkins (Andrew Cox), and Misty Waters; grandchildren, Darien, Gwen, and Persephone; brother, Ron Atkins; sister-in-law, Linda Carlson; brother-in-law, Richard (Dee) Sherrard; lifelong friends, Jim and Nikki Skilling; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Lois Clark and Mary Chenoweth.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2022 from 2:00PM until 4:00PM at 5023 Orchard Ave, Rockford, IL, 61108. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Genoa City is honored to assist the Atkins family.