Marilyn June Atchinson

Marilyn Herrick Atchinson 

Former resident of Walnut Creek 

Nov. 10, 1929 – Dec. 1, 2020 

Marilyn “Mer” Herrick was born to Adah and Emerson Herrick on Nov. 10th, 1929 in Lodi, CA. and passed away on Dec. 1st, 2020.  Marilyn is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Wil Atchinson.  She is survived by her children Robin Grieger (Gary), Claudia See (Robert) and Alexis Atchinson (John); grandchildren Clayton, Erin, Michael, Matthew, Jordan and Allison;  great-grandchildren Hailey, Savannah, Taylor, Hayden, Holden, Hunter and Uriah, Mila and Aviyah; and her sister in-law Laura Lyons. 

Mer spent her childhood and schooling in Lodi. She graduated from Lodi High School and attended San Jose State where she majored in music.  While on summer vacation in South Lake Tahoe in 1948, Mer met Wil, the love of her life.  They were married in Reno in June of 1949.   

Mer was a talented pianist, and family and friends enjoyed countless hours of music as she played. She also taught many students to play the piano.   Mer was a supporter of the San Francisco Symphony, attended ballet performances, and enjoyed theater productions throughout the Bay Area. She was a wonderful homemaker who enjoyed sewing, gardening and especially cooking. Many people considered her a gourmet cook and she was a big fan of Julia Child. She also enjoyed playing cards including cribbage and bridge with family and friends.  Mer and Wil were avid football fans, attending many Superbowls and San Francisco 49er games. 

Along with Wil, Mer enjoyed travel and explored North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America. They enjoyed the cruise ship lifestyle, and for a period of time owned a sailboat that they sailed on San Francisco Bay. Mer and Wil also took their enthusiasm for sailing to the Greek Islands, and along with several other close friends, sailed from island to island.   Likewise, Hawaii was a special place for them to visit over the years. Mer and Wil also had a special affinity for South Lake Tahoe, and spent many summers there entertaining family and friends. 

Mer will be missed by family and friends. On her behalf, the family would like to thank the people who provided support in her final years: the staff at Byron Park Senior Living in Walnut Creek, the staff at Creekview Skilled Nursing in Pleasanton, friend Wendy Cole, and lifelong friend Sally Ryan. 

No services will be held. If you would like to make a donation, please consider the Salvation Army. 

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