Former Ben chief executive Geoffrey Atkinson OBE dies

Geoffrey Atkinson OBE, the CEO of the automotive industry charity Ben for 25 years, has died.

He was chief executive of Ben from 1978 until he retired at the age of 65 in 2004.

Geoffrey Atkinson was instrumental in developing and implementing Ben’s first five year plan in 1978, which achieved its ambitious objectives of developing new sheltered housing; building a new nursing and residential complex; building a special unit for people with dementia and achieving an income of £1.5m by 1983.

He was responsible for the acquisition and subsequent conversion of Alexandra House in Southport into a care centre in 1979 and the building of Town Thorns Care Centre and sheltered housing provision in the midlands, which opened in 1981.

Additionally, in 1997, he led the charity in opening its Day Care Centre, which provides day care for older people and those living with dementia.

Geoffrey also retained his commitment to Ben during retirement, as he and his wife, Tina Steele, Ben’s former Fundraising Director, took part in a skydive in 2009 to raise money for the charity, jumping out of a plane at 15,000ft. They raised £16,000.

Geoffrey had many links with the automotive and charity sectors and was extremely well thought of by many for his incredible achievements. He was also awarded an OBE for his efforts.

He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and family after a short illness.

His funeral takes place on the 14^th February 2020 at 12 noon.  For details contact Tina at tsteele47@aol.com.

In addition to his wife Tina, Geoffrey leaves three children, Kate, Tim and Mike, step daughter Kirsty and nine grandchildren.