David A. Atherton

October 3, 2017

David A. Atherton

GARDNER- David A. Atherton, 77, of Central Street, and formerly of the Athol-Orange area, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, September 24, 2017, after being stricken ill at home.

Born in Swampscott on February 26, 1940, he was a son of the late Franklin M. Sr. and Neda (Stone) Atherton.

Following high school, David enlisted into the United States Army on October 10, 1960 and was honorably discharged on September 19, 1963.  David fought for our nation in the Vietnam War. 

After his time of service to our country, he attended an A.A. Allen meeting and received Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.  He went on to bring salvation to his family. 

David was married to Dolores (Gunn) for almost 20 years until her death on June 17, 2016.

David had worked at several jobs over the years.

A firm believer in the Bible, David studied it every day, reading it through completely 27 times and spread the Word of the Lord in his travels. He is known as the man who passed out tiny bibles to all who he came in contact with. He was a Spiritual Father to many including his nephew, Bernie.  He was an active member and elder of Higher Ground Ministries in Gardner.

Survivors include his step children, a brother in law, Michael Chamberlain of Athol and his family; his church family; and many friends.

Besides his parents and wife, David was predeceased by a brother, Franklin Atherton Jr. and a sister, Beverly Chamberlain.

There are no calling hours.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Higher Ground Ministries, 186 Central Street, Gardner, with Pastor Jonathan Kamenski officiating.

Interment will take place on October 16 , 2017 at 10:00 a.m., in the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is directing the arrangements.

You may offer your sympathy online at www.wittyfuneralhome.com