WATERBURY – It is with heavy hearts that the family of Todd Atkins, age 43, of Waterbury shares that he passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2026. A beloved son, brother, family member and friend, Todd will be remembered as having a beautiful, kind and loving soul.

Todd was born on January 24, 1983, in Waterbury, Connecticut, the cherished son of Joe and Linda (Rainone) Atkins. He attended Saint Francis Xavier Grammar School, where he excelled academically and served as an altar boy, before graduating from Kennedy High School. He continued his education at Penn State University, earning a bachelor's degree in Philosophy, and later received his Master's degree in Education from Western Connecticut State University. Todd was a devoted son who enjoyed helping his parents with yardwork, fixing things around their home, sharing family movie nights, and spending countless hours untangling the mysteries of his father's computer and then beating him in cribbage.

Todd had a lifelong love of the outdoors, a passion that began during his years as a Boy Scout with Troop 3, where he proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He enjoyed hiking, camping, being in and on the water. His interests were as varied as his talents. He could discuss Nietzsche, fix just about anything, recite lines from a classic movie, quote from the countless books he read and knew everything there was to know about food – and certainly enjoyed eating it.

Above all, Todd treasured his family and shared an especially close bond with his sister, Dana Pietruszkiewicz. Two halves of the same whole, they navigated life together. Whether talking for hours on the phone, hiking, enjoying movie nights, or simply spending time together, there was no better place than in each other's company. With just one look across a room, they could communicate without speaking.

Todd was a private person, but if he welcomed you into his orbit, you were in for a treat. He cared deeply for the people in his life and was always willing to listen, offer guidance, lend a hand or talk about the meaning of life. He would, quite literally, get out of bed in the middle of the night to help friends, family and even people he barely knew through some of their darkest moments. He did so humbly and with his beautifully original sense of humor. His Eagle Scout achievement was a reflection of the person he was. He wasn't just someone who knew the trail; he was someone who could guide others to find theirs. He was dependable, gentle, wise and safe. He made the world feel less frightening because he was in it.

Todd's time with us was far too short, but the love he shared, the people he helped, and the memories he created will remain with those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family and countless friends.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted parents, Joe and Linda Atkins; his beloved sister, Dana Pietruszkiewicz, and her husband, Nick; his aunts and uncles, Nancy Hutt; Paul and Jean Rainone; Steven and Debbie Rainone; Richard and Lonnie Atkins; Tommy and Patty Atkins; and Victor and Susan Atkins; along with countless loving cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A memorial gathering to honor Todd’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm followed by a memorial service at 7:00pm at Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06705. Burial will be held privately and at the convenience of his family. Casey’s Eastside Memorial has been honored to care for Todd and support his family and friends during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charity of the donor’s choice in Todd's memory. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Todd to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.