Charles “Chuck” Atkins

Chuck was born on July 16, 1974, in Marquette, Michigan, to Yoko and Robert “Bob” Atkins. He graduated from Marquette Senior High School and went on to play football at Michigan Technological University, where an injury ultimately ended his playing career. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Northern Michigan University.

On November 27, 2009, Chuck married Jennifer Tryban. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community. He was a devoted father to Matthew and Clare, rarely missing a moment of their lives. Chuck could always be found cheering them onäwhether they were showing animals at the fair, playing hockey, soccer, football, or little league, or participating in cheerleading, gymnastics, dance, or any new adventure they chose to try. If he wasn’t cheering on his children, you could find him relaxing with his cherished dogs.

Chuck was a beloved brother to Rob (Beth) Atkins, an amazing uncle to Jacob (Bella Ludwig) & Wyatt (Taylor Lee) Atkins and Bram & Maryn Podoll, a great uncle to Levie Belle & Vivienne Lee Atkins, a cherished brother-in-law to Joellen (Nate) Podoll & son-in-law to Mary Ellen Tryban, a chef from a young age, a caregiver, a coach to many, a Gift of Life recipient, and a friend to everyone he met. He never met a stranger and could talk with anyone, sharing stories with warmth, humor, and sincerity. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, infant nephew Anthony Atkins, and father-in-law & friend, Joe Tryban.

Throughout his life, Chuck gave generously of his time and talents. He served as a former board member of the Michigan Eye Bank, had been very active at both the local and state levels with the Jaycees, and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. He was deeply involved in St. Mary’s/St. Charles Catholic Church, participating in the men’s prayer group. Chuck also served on the board of the Cheboygan Hockey Association, volunteered as an assistant coach for Cheboygan Varsity Football, and was the head coach for Cheboygan JV Football.

While Chuck spent much of his professional career working in IT, he later found great purpose as a paraprofessional in the automotive classes at Cheboygan Area High School. There, he showed countless students that he was more than a coach-he was a mentor, a trusted listener, a steady presence, and someone who genuinely cared about their lives and futures.

Visitation will be held at St. Mary’s/St. Charles Catholic Church on Sunday, February 8, from 4:00­7:00 p.m., with a vigil service and the opportunity for everyone to share stories about Chuck at 7:00 p.m. A second visitation will take place on Monday, February 9 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be held after Mass in the Cheboygan Area High School gymnasium. Cheboygan Chiefs apparel is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chiefs Touchdown Club or checks made out to SAFCU (Atkins in memo) to further Matthew and Clare’s education.

Chuck’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched-with kindness, encouragement, faith, and a listening ear-and through the love he poured into his family and community.