John Akers

John C. Akers died at age 76, on April 3, 2024, at the Portland  VA Hospital.  He is now with the One he loved most, Jesus Christ. He is survived by his wife of 8 years, Jill K. Bowers, his daughters Roxanne McGovern and Jany Akers, step daughters Laurie Wetzel, Lisa Denzler, and Nikole Pẽna, his former wives Shirley Akers and Elyn Worrall, and several grandchildren.

John was born and raised in Montana, graduating from Great Falls High School in 1966. He served two years in the Navy, after which he embarked on a lifelong journey of learning.   He attended Spokane Falls Community College, California State University LA (BA in History), Ecole Superieur de Commerce and Universite de Neuchatel, Switzerland ( Certificate in French Studies), Gonzaga University (Greek Studies), Whitworth College (Teaching Certification and MA in Education), Fuller Theological Seminary (Masters of Divinity), and Bakke Graduate University of Ministry, where he nearly completed his PhD in International Urban Studies.  His colorful work background ranged wide: carpet layer,  elementary school teacher, youth worker in France, pastor, philosophy and Greek teacher, spiritual director, consultant, prison chaplain, janitor, and building facilities engineer.

A teacher at heart, John was an avid pursuer of knowledge, particularly in philosophy and theology.  He loved helping people, especially the disadvantaged, and was known for asking probing questions. Kind and generous to all, he was totally dedicated to living out his faith. He had a delightful and quirky sense of humor, and charmed us with his MacGyver style handy-man skills.  He will be keenly missed by his family and friends.