Robert L. Atherton, left, of Morrison, IL, and Richard L. Atherton, of Thomson, IL, were born to Merle and Ihla Atherton on July 10, 1935, in Thomson. They have shared a natal day for 80 years. As children they are reported to have switched places occasionally at school, because “Bob was better at art than Dick.” Both shared a love of truck driving. They even shaved their beards recently. The brothers remain close and talk often, as most twins do.
Bob and Dick both served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict.
Bob and his wife, Margo, have two children, Kelly Vegter and Robert C. Atherton. They have three grandchildren. Bob retired after 38 years from General Electric Appliance Control Department.
Dick is married to Beverly, and they have four daughters, Kim Drury, Kathy Raymond, Karyn Mabeus, and Kori Atherton and one son, Kevin, deceased. They have eight grandchildren. Dick was a driver for Truck Transporters and Miller Transporters. He retired in 2014.