Image Source: Atnip Co., Inc.
Atnip Co., Inc. announces with deep sadness the passing of its esteemed founder and CEO, Richard “Dick” Atnip, who died peacefully on May 30, 2025, at the age of 87. He was surrounded by family at his home in Fullerton, California, following a courageous battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.
Dick Atnip was a towering figure in the vending and coffee services industry and a leader defined by persistence, integrity, and heart. His signature phrase — “Follow up, follow up, follow up!” — became both a business mantra and a personal philosophy that shaped his approach to life and leadership.
From Shoe Salesman to Business Owner
Born on November 5, 1937, in Merced, California, Richard Atnip was the oldest of four brothers. He graduated from Diablo High School in Concord and attended the University of San Francisco as an accounting student. As a young man, he worked as a shoe salesman — a job that would lead him to the love of his life. Across the street from his store was a Five and Dime where he met Joan Marceau. Ten days after meeting, they eloped in Carson City, Nevada, on March 25, 1958, beginning their 65-year partnership.
In 1962, Dick and Joan made a rather risky move — leaving behind Northern California with their young son and another on the way to pursue an opportunity in the vending industry in Southern California. With little more than an old Fiat and a leap of faith, they became the new representatives for Hills Bros. Coffee and the proud owners of Atnip Co., Inc. Dick and Joan had a growing business and a growing family.
A Vending Industry Legend
Under Dick’s leadership, Atnip Co. grew into the leading vending brokerage in the western United States, known for its dedication to clients, long-term relationships, and knowledge. His influence was instrumental in shaping the vending and refreshments industry.
Throughout his career, Dick Atnip earned national recognition for several contributions. He joined the Board of Directors for the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) in 1997 and became the first non-operator to serve as Chair in 2004. His accolades include being named NAMA Industry Person of the Year (2002), induction into the Coffee Services Hall of Fame (2017), and most recently as Coffee Legend of the Year (2022). He also received multiple Supplier of the Year honors from the California Automatic Vending Council (CAVC).
A Man of Passion, Adventure, Faith, and Philanthropy
Dick lived a rich life in adventure and culture. He loved golf, tennis, jazz music, and travel. He was also an accomplished pilot, snow skier, and even a desert motorcycle racer — having completed the famed Barstow to Vegas race, spanning nearly 180 miles of Mojave Desert (only stopping to refuel). He was also the guy who brought the right bottle of wine to every occasion, thoroughly enjoying the research that went into such viticultural perfection, whether it be in Napa, Tuscany, or Alsace.
He was also a man of strong Catholic faith. A former lector and weekly volunteer for Eucharistic Adoration, he remained spiritually connected and faithfully attended online Mass in his later years. His family worshiped at several parishes, most notably St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church, where he had been baptized and remained deeply devoted.
One of Dick’s greatest passions was giving to others. His philanthropic efforts included support for Senior Serve Meals on Wheels, the Wounded Warriors Project, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and the CAVC Walsh Family Foundation.
His Legacy Lives On Through Family and Company
He continued to serve as President and CEO until his final days, working closely with his team — many of whom were like extended family. The values he championed remain central to Atnip Co.’s culture: persistence, humility, and care.
Dick Atnip is survived by his sons Larry (Kath), Barry (Melinda), and David; grandchildren Danielle, Taylor, Casey, Jordan, Piper, Richard, and Bradley; and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother Gerald (Anne), his loving companion Sally Phelps, and close friend John Schultz. He was preceded in death by his wife Joan, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and adventure.
The team at Atnip Co., along with industry colleagues and friends across the country, mourns the passing of a man who not only shaped an industry, but touched countless lives through his generosity, leadership, and indomitable spirit.
And if you know Dick, he’s already checking out heaven’s vending machines — just to make sure everything’s running smoothly. “Need to follow up!”
Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Juliana Falconieri Catholic Church in Fullerton, California. A lunch reception at the Atnip family home will follow.
Flowers are welcome to be sent to the Atnip office at any time, or to the church on the day of the celebration. Donations in Richard Atnip’s memory may be made to his favorite charities:
Richard “Dick” Atnip leaves behind a lasting imprint on an industry, a company, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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