Obituary of Kenneth L. Akins

age 66, of Elmira, passed away December 6, 2020 in his home surrounded by his family. Ken was born in Bath, NY on November 15, 1954, son to the late Lloyd and Leona (Woodhouse) Akins. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years Mary (Losito) Akins, son Timothy Akins; daughters, Alicia Akins Shoup, Katie Akins, Emily Akins; beloved granddaughter Madeline Shoup; sisters, Jeanne Clift, Elaine (Steve) Coon, Cheryl Harkness; brothers-in-law, Pete (Glenna) Losito, Patrick (Patti) Losito, Paul (Kathy) Losito, Phil (Donna) Losito, Sam (Rachel) Losito; sister- in- law Nora VanRensselaer; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends, including his GETA family. Ken's life mirrored the lyrics of Forever Young by, arguably, his favorite artist Bob Dylan: HIS HANDS WERE ALWAYS BUSY: He was an avid photographer capturing simple beauty in nature and always documented family gatherings. He had a love of fishing that was passed to him from his father onto his children and granddaughter. He encouraged and supported his children and grandchild throughout their sports and extracurricular activities. HIS FEET WERE ALWAYS SWIFT: Ken loved playing tennis and was a member of GETA for many years, given the nickname "Johnny Mac". He spent his career in nursing beginning in the ICU, then moved on to work with the Foster House family, then IMAST, where his favorite position was working in oncology. HE HAD A STRONG FOUNDATION: His wife Mary was his love, rock, supporter, and caretaker. He held a strong connection to his sisters, brothers-in-law, family, and friends. He had a sense of humor that connected him to anyone, so he knew no strangers. WHEN THE WINDS OF CHANGE SHIFTED: He worked with strength and courage to stand upright and be strong. HIS HEART WAS ALWAYS JOYFUL: He found joy in music as well as his faithful dogs, including his dog Fiona who was by his side until the end. His joy could be seen through his constant smile and heard in his sense of humor. HIS SONG WILL ALWAYS BE SUNG: His family plans to honor him through memories of pancake breakfasts, camping trips, rooting for the Jets, Yankees, or Syracuse, and listening to his favorite music. His lessons in photography to always "look up" will take on a new meaning. AND IN OUR MEMORIES AND HEARTS HE'LL STAY, FOREVER YOUNG. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W Water Street, Elmira, on Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Ken’s family is especially grateful to William Deluccia MD, Dayakar Reddy MD, and Carl Charnetski MD for their medical expertise and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Rehab Hospital in Wilmington, NC, or to the Greater Elmira Tennis Association (GETA) in memory of Ken Akins; P O Box 147 Big Flats, NY 14814, or a charity of your choice.