MT. VERNON, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Mt. Vernon Airport is mourning the loss of Evertt Atkinson, a cherished member of the community. Airport officials said Atkinson passed away on Easter Sunday at the age of 102, marking the end of an era for the airport and its community.
Airport officials shared some details about his life. Atkinson was a distinguished World War II aviator who started with just a high school education and worked his way up to become an Aircraft Commander in the Boeing B-29 "Superfortress."
When sharing photos, airport officials said Atkinson often told people, "I went from working two horses (on the farm) to 8800 horsepower (4 Wright 3350 Double Cyclone Turbo-supercharged Radial Engines)."
Throughout his life, Atkinson played a vital role in hosting various historical aircrafts at the Mt. Vernon Airport. His contributions included hosting the B-29 "Fifi" twice, as well as several B-17 and B-25 aircraft events. Atkinson was also a familiar face at nearly all airport events, engaging with both children and adults.
The Mt. Vernon Airport will remember Atkinson fondly, with his presence immortalized in the Hall of Honor and the B-29 Display outside the Bonnie Café.
His legacy and contributions to the community will continue to be cherished by all who knew him.
