Jim Akers

Palmer resident Jim Akers, 36, died Oct. 23, 2012.

Jim was born April 18, 1976, in South Williamson, Ky. He grew up in Slana and later moved to Chugiak, where he attended Chugiak High School. Jim worked for Bear Paw Masonry, Kodiak Masonry and others in the masonry community. He enjoyed time with his family, lake fishing, camping, building, drawing, X-box 360 and NASCAR.

Surviving are his wife, KaSandra Bilger Akers; children, Blake, Chance, Ciara, Mitchell, Shania, Alyssa and Jim Jr., of Palmer and Chugiak; parents, Myrl and Louise Kidd of Pearce, Ariz.; sister, Regina Akers-Saavedera of Tucson, Ariz.; brother, Richard Akers of Kalamazoo, Mich.; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his father, Richard Curtis Akers; and his brother, Reno Kidd.

A service and celebration of life is at 11 a.m., Nov. 9 at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints, 9475 E. Colony Schools St., Palmer. An interpreter will be available.

In lieu of flowers, an account has been established to assist the family with relocation.

Donations can be made to the Jim Akers Family at any Wells Fargo bank, account No. 1314819374, or sent c/o Becki Franklin, P.O. Box 249, Dickinson, ND 58602. Cards and condolences may also be sent to this same address. Pictures and stories of fond memories are particularly appreciated so that a scrapbook can be made for the children.

The family would like to thank the doctors and the nursing staff at Providence Hospital ICU; principals and staff at Colony, Palmer, Teeland and Nunaka Valley schools; Pastor Randy Jones from Gate Way Fellowship Church; those who volunteered ASL services; and all who offered prayers and support during this difficult time.