Ermalee Atkinson

90 years old, passed away, surrounded by family, in her home at Vallecito Lake on October 17, 2016. Vallecito Lake is affectionately known as Granny's Lake.Ermalee was born October 1, 1926 in Frederick, Oklahoma to Tavie and E.W. Simmons. She attended Oklahoma University and graduated with a degree in Zoology. She remained a diehard Sooner football fan until the end. Later, she wed Don Atkinson and they brought their three little girls to Colorado, in 1960, to make their home at Pine River Lodge. Ermalee successfully owned and operated Pine River Lodge for 57 years. Her exceptional talent in business was passed down to each of her daughters. Ermalee made hundreds of friends in her time at Pine River Lodge, and cherished each. In Ermalee's later years she became an artist and collector. She had a deep appreciation for beauty and found it everywhere. She enjoyed watching old movies and dancing to Dean Martin in her pool. Ermalee was devoted to her family and she was the most wonderful, loving mother in the world. She gave her granddaughters every opportunity and led them by setting the example of a strong, successful, independent, and kind woman. She loved flowers and Christmas. Her beautiful smile and generous heart will never be forgotten. Ermalee is survived by her children, Donna Atkinson, Debbie Fahrion, and Denise (Russ) Haga; her grandchildren, Heather (Marshall) Hahn, Dawn (JJ) Fahrion, and Ashley (Kirill) Haga; and her great grandchildren, Nathan, Keaton, Landon, Easton, Cooper, Silas, Daxton, Gunner, and Brynn; and many, many friends. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11 A.M. at the Church of Christ in Bayfield on Bayfield Parkway. A special viewing with her family will be held at Hood Mortuary on Monday from 5 P.M. - 7 P.M. Contributions can be made in her memory to Hospice of Mercy or Bayfield Early Education Program. Special thanks to Hospice of Mercy and Practitioner Rosemary Fleming for all of her years of care.