Joanne "Kay" Atkins

Joanne “Kay” Atkins, age 72 of Grand Forks, ND and formerly of Grafton, ND passed away on Monday, April 12, 2021 at Altru Hospital of Grand Forks.

Joanne “Kay” Markel was born September 13, 1948 in Walsh County, North Dakota to the late Joseph and Lodifa (Reiger) Markel.  She was raised and attended school in Hoople, graduating from Hoople High School in 1967.  Kay worked for CHI Friendship and Life Skills and Transition Center for more than 20 years, retiring from there to tend to her gardens and enjoy life with her family and friends.

Kay loved to be outside taking care of her flowers and garden beds. She also enjoyed puzzles, coloring and was a cat enthusiast.

Kay is survived by her nephews: David Markel, Fargo, ND and Joseph Markel, Wake Forest, NC; niece: Kari (Keith) Mecham, Fargo, ND; and brother: Stan Markel, Park River, ND.  She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Glenn, and her beloved cats Bubba and Chloe.