It’s a good bet that anybody living in Sacramento, California, (or within the surrounding vicinity), over the past few decades will know Stan Atkinson. Atkinson was a legendary news anchor – and well known in the community for giving back. He had a long career as an anchor, a reporter, and one behind the scenes. Post-television, Stan worked within the community and he had a foundation under his name. Sadly, he passed away on Sunday, May 25th at the age of 92.
Stan Atkinson’s Start in His Career
Stan Atkinson, a native of California, went to Pasadena City College. After college, he was deployed in the Korean conflict. Once he came back from his deployment, Stan took a job as an assistant in the newsroom at KCRA. He would stay with KCRA for nearly 40 years.
During his time with KCRA, Stan reported from places like Cuba, Serbia, Afghanistan, and Somalia. At one point he was even grazed by a sniper’s bullet, but thankfully was unharmed. Stan was known for covering big stories, exposing controversial conditions, and was well liked by viewers.
Stan Atkinson’s Time as a News Anchor
In 1994, he took a job with Sacramento channel KOVR. Once he was with KOVR, Stan Atkinson was primarily at the anchor desk. He easily engaged viewers within the city area of Sacramento, thus boosting the station’s ratings.
Later Years
In 1999, Stan Atkinson retired, but this did not slow him down. He remained active within the Sacramento community, working with the East Sacramento Rotary club. He helped raise money for the Sacramento River Cats Independence Field. In addition, Stan Atkinson was one of the main fundraisers to help build the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the State Capitol grounds.
Sacramento Remembers Stan
During his last few years, Stan Atkinson was a resident at Mercy McMahon Terrace, where he engaged daily with the fellow residents and staff. The three-time Emmy winning reporter and anchor will be remembered for his commitment to truth in journalism. He will also be remembered for his desire for bettering the Sacramento community. Stan survived by his children, over two dozen grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
