Community Rallies Behind Couple Who Lost Longtime Home To Fire

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Community members are rallying behind an elderly couple who lost their home after fire ripped through it Sunday night.

The fire broke out just before 9 p.m. Sunday on the 4900 block of Finn Road in the Town of Superior.

Sonny and Jeanne Atkinson are both in their 80s and were sleeping at the time. The couple, who have been together for over 60 years, got out with only the clothes they were wearing.

The fire destroyed the home they built nearly four decades ago.

Their niece, Raquel Stockey, told FOX 21 the stressors go beyond just the house.

“They lost everything. The house, complete loss. Car keys were in the house still, so they have vehicles that they can’t drive because they don’t have keys. They’re both in their 80’s so they lost a lifetime of memories,” said Stockey.

And their longtime home could not be insured because it sits on a flood plain, according too family.

Stockey, who owns the 4 Corners Store in Superior, is also using the store as a hub for donations for the couple.

“They do have a Venmo, but if people don’t use Venmo or aren’t comfortable with it. They can drop off monetary donations here at the store and we’ll make sure that they get them. We’ve already had quite a few people drop off some stuff and offer assistance with whatever they may need, which is unbelievable and kind of our community,” said Stockey.

The couple are currently staying with family until they can get back on their feet. They have also received assistance from the Pattison Park Lions Club, Disabled American Veterans and Red Cross.

Venmo: @jerryatkinson