Wayne Edward Atkins age 69 of Walnut Grove formerly of Redwood Falls passed away Thursday, November 2, 2017 at Prairie View Healthcare Center in Tracy after a brief illness.   A private family burial will be held at St. Olaf Lutheran Cemetery south of Walnut Grove.  Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com.  Stephens Funeral Service – Walnut Grove Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Wayne Edward Atkins was born January 25, 1948 to Edward and Evelyn (Weis) Atkins in Tracy, Minnesota.  He graduated from Walnut Grove High School in 1966.  Wayne attended Worthington Community College and Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall.  While he was in college, Wayne worked at Hemmingson auto in Tracy.  Wayne then worked for over 30 years as a Security Guard at Jackpot Junction Casino after they first opened.  He was a lifetime member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church.  Wayne enjoyed collecting Native American memorabilia, reading books about history and listening to Rock and Roll music. He loved watching western movies, football and spending time with the dogs Blizzard and Coco.

Wayne is survived by children: Sherri Hupp of Mankato, Rick (Lori) Atkins of Rapid City, SD, Jamie (Kim) Atkins of Cottage Grove; grandchildren: Cole & Claire Hupp, Ben & Christopher Atkins, and Gabe, Dominick & Noah Atkins; and sister & special brother-in-law Linda (Roger) Engler of Walnut Grove.  He is preceded in death by his parents.