Gary Lee “Gator” Akers, 65 of Coldwater passed away Monday, January 15, 2018 at his home under hospice care while surrounded by his loving family.

In following Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Gator’s life will be held at a later date.

Gary was born December 21, 1952 to Troy and Lora (Tackett) Akers in Wadsworth, OH. He graduated from Homer High School in 1971.

Gator was a free spirit who always wore a smile. He lived simply, while enjoying life. Gator liked hunting and fishing. He was a good father, brother, son, uncle, and friend to many. Gator was well known for cracking jokes and making people laugh.

Gator had a lifelong love for Harley Davidson motorcycles, which is a love that he passed on to both of his sons. He enjoyed riding his 1969 Shovelhead and going camping with family & friends. Halloween was a special holiday in the Akers family. Gator always went full tilt dressing up and partaking in the spirit of the festivities. His “Beetle Juice” costume was a big hit with the family and those that came to the house to collect candy.

In most recent years he loved spending time with his family, especially his 8 grandchildren who love and will miss him dearly. He had a way of making kids smile and laugh. His entrepreneurial spirit was also directed toward his grandchildren, growing corn, tomatoes, green beans, and other vegetables for them to sell.

Gary is survived by his sons Anthony (Lorraine) Akers and Ryan (Jessica) Akers all of Coldwater; his mother Lora England of Bailey, CO; his brother Larry (Brenda) Akers of Ft. White, FL; his two sisters; his grandchildren Alex Koch, Cheyenne Akers, Mackenzie Koch, Sydney Akers, Dominic Akers, Lillian Gimenez, Kylee Akers, and Brecken Akers all of Coldwater. He was preceded in death by his father Troy Akers and his sister Mary Ann Akers.

Memorials may be directed to Shriners Children’s Hospital. www.dutcherfh.com