Ronald Akin (1947 - 2015)

Obituary

 On December 14th, surrounded by his family, Ron passed away at Hospice House in Surprise, Arizona after a 4 year battle with Leukemia. Ron was 68 years old. He is preceded in death by mother, Edna Pilarski, father, Guy Akin, stepfather, Erv Pilarski, brother, Bill Akin, brother-in-law, Butch Milbourn, and brother-in-law, Don Hegland.

He is survived by his wife, Peggy J. Akin of Surprise, Arizona, son, Tony (Melissa) Akin of Celina, Texas, daughters, Nikki (Mike) Walsh of South Bend, Indiana, Rebecca (Greg) Allison of Gilbert, Arizona, and step-granddaughter, Avery Weddell of South Bend, Indiana. He is also survived by sister, Nancy Hegland of South Bend, Indiana, brother-in-law, Richard (Sandy) Scott of North Liberty, Indiana, Sue Milbourn of South Bend, Indiana, Sheila Scott of South Bend, Indiana and many nieces and nephews. 

Ron was born January 29th, 1947 to the late Edna and Guy Akin in Elkhart, Indiana. He grew up in South Bend, Indiana and graduated from Riley High School in 1965. Ron went to College of Commerce for a business degree and served in the Marine Reserves (1966-1972). On September 26th, 1970 he married the love of his life, Peggy Jo Scott. In 1971 he began working for the U.S. Post Office; he had a long career with the USPS of South Bend that included being a Clerk, Supervisor and Plant Manager. After 31 years he retired from the Post Office and he and Peggy moved to Surprise, Arizona. Ron worked in Arizona as a Realtor for several years with Ken Meade Realty. He was also the Author and Co-Editor of the Book of Festivals in The Midwest.

His greatest love was spending time with family and his 4-legged friend, Petey. Ron enjoyed fishing and bike riding, and was an avid reader, ND fan, Bears fan, Colts fan, enjoyed watching college basketball, and later was a Suns fan. He was known by his neighbors for his famous Christmas cookies. He was a competitive board and card game player, claiming he was the "master." He was a car lover and member of the British car club in Michiana. After retirement, he and Peggy enjoyed traveling and exploring Arizona.
He leaves behind many close family members, friends and neighbors. In memoriam of Ron there will be a Celebration of Life in spring/summer of 2016 in South Bend.

Published in South Bend Tribune on Jan. 12, 2016