William D. Atherton, 88, of Mount Union passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at William Penn Nursing and Rehabilitation in Lewistown, PA surrounded by his family. Born July 26, 1938, he was son of the late Harry and Evelyn (Reeder) Atherton. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, John Atherton, Dennis Atherton; sisters, Judy Myers, Joy Ginithan, and Sandra Gearhart. William is survived by his loving wife Anna L. (Snyder) Atherton whom he was united in marriage with for 66 incredible, love-filled years. William is also survived by his sons, Cary Atherton, Donald Atherton; daughters, Melody (James) Corbin, Anita (Timothy) Sunderland; granddaughters, Michelle (Eric) Knable, Stephanie (Fred) Rummings, Carrie (Bryant) Brown, Jolene (Gene) Bowersox, Ashley (Adam) Wagner, Courtney Sunderland; grandsons, Devin Atherton, Benjamin Grove, Dylan (Ellie) Sunderland; sisters, Lana Rhodes, Cindy (Larry) Snyder, Janet (Paul) Walker, Diana Caldwell; and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. William served in the United States Air Force as Radar Traffic Analysis Specialist from 1956 to 1962 and then served in the Army National Guard in Huntingdon, PA. He attended Altoona School of Commerce where he earned an associate degree in accounting. William worked for PA Department of Corrections at SCI Huntingdon. He was Commissary Assistant Manager when he retired after 26 years of service. William was a man of many hobbies including golfing, hunting, reading, and watching baseball. He also enjoyed taking walks on Jacks Mountain and birdwatching from his porch swing. He was a former member of the American Legion Country Club where he spent countless hours trying to perfect his golf game. William was a devoted husband and loving father and enjoyed every moment spent with his family. He was also especially fond of his beloved cat, Rosie, with whom he shared his recliner on occasion. Above all else, he loved his wife and her kisses. His soft-spoken, gentle spirit and smiling eyes will be missed by all who knew and loved him. At William’s request, a private service followed by interment at Mount Union Borough Cemetery will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s memory may be made to UPMC Family Hospice or Alzheimer’s Association: Greater Pennsylvania Chapter – Harrisburg Office. Arrangements have been entrusted to Heath-Anderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 61 E. Shirley St., Mount Union, "Honored Provider of Veterans Funeral Care™." Condolences may be made at AndersonFamilyFuneralHomes.com