Mr. Atherton was born on May 16 1916 in New York New York. He moved to this area in 1989 from West Hartford Connecticut where he had been a member of the Church of Christ Congregational in Newington Connecticut. A member of the F&AM Harrison Masonic Lodge #1093 in New York. He was also a Navy veteran of World War II.

He was married for 52 years to his wife Florence who predeceased him. Survivors include his son Peter B. Atherton of Newington CT; a brother and sister-in-law; Frederick A. and Elizabeth P. Atherton of Hudson FL; and two nieces Penny Wilson of Canton CT and Susie Atherton of Lancaster PA.

Donations in John''''s name may be made to the American Heart Association 555 W. Granada Blvd. Suite A-1 Ormond Beach FL 32174.