Atlee Dean Nerheim was born June 27, 2007, in Vancouver, Washington. A beautiful boy, with a heart of gold, Atlee left an impression on every person he met.

Atlee was a pure country boy, riding his dirt bike and playing with his dog, Shadow, was a perfect day for him. He loved spending time on the farm and learning how to do things with his many cousins, aunts and uncles. He always had fun when harvest came around; eager to ride in the combines or trucks and always bringing treats to the drivers. He loved being right in the middle of all the work.

Atlee fought severe aplastic anemia for years, undergoing many tests and therapies, including two transplants. He spent most of his last 5 years in the hospital. So many of the people involved in his treatment became more than friends, they became his family. He truly loved each and every one and made sure that each person knew he loved them. His last day at Children’s Hospital, he was surrounded with many of the people he called family to celebrate him and to show their love for him.

Atlee’s last wish was to be able to go home. He was able to have his wish granted and got to spend his last days surrounded by family and friends and his farm.

Atlee is survived by his parents, Talia and Evaristo Tapia of Johnson; siblings, Mercedes and husband Sean Climer of Utah, Brione, Channing, Abby and Alex all of the home; grandmother, Bobbie Seger of Johnson; cousins, aunts, and uncles; and many friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Atlee Nerheim Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS  67880.  The memorial contributions will be used to purchase a headstone for Atlee, and also for a fund Atlee started for his best friend who is also battling an aggressive form of leukemia.  She has been a very important person to Atlee and he wanted to make sure he helped her on her journey.   Following is a link on youtube of a video of Atlee   https://youtu.be/6l0qBXvASr4  Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.