Date of Birth:
Friday, September 11, 1925
Date of Death:
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Age:
85 years old

Robert James “Bob” Akenhead

Robert James “Bob” Akenhead, 85, of Sun City, Ariz., passed away on March 1, 2011.

Bob was born on Sept. 11, 1925, in Rochester, to George and Doris Akenhead. Bob served in the United States Marine Corp, Fourth Division, during World War II and participated in the first wave on Saipan, Marianas Islands, Tinian, Iwo Jima, and Volcano Island. He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Ann Peterson, in Rochester, almost 65 years ago on June 17, 1946, and then moved to Northern California. Bob and Betty were world travelers who always were ready for a new adventure and new acquaintances. Bob retired from the San Francisco Air Pollution District in 1980 and they relocated to their beloved Sun City, Ariz.

He enjoyed many activities within the community and was active in the Sun City Travel Trailer Club. He was a certified mediation counselor for the Arizona Attorney General’s Community Relations’ Unit-Mediation group and was award their 1988 Volunteer of the Year award. Many visitors to Sun City may remember Bob’s ever present smile as he worked as a volunteer at the Visitors Center. In later years, he was especially proud of his involvement in the Grand Canyon Chapter #33 of the 4th Marine Division Association. Bob will be remembered for the strength of his character and his always present humor.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Betty, and his children Judith Ann (Ana) Donaldson of Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Sheila Jonette Gentry of Modesto, Calif., his son-in-laws, Alan Donaldson of Cedar Falls, Iowa and Tom Gentry of Modesto, Calif.; his grandchildren Thomas and Justin Gentry, and his granddaughter, Taylor. Bob is preceded in death by his father and mother, and sister ,Harriet Eckman of Bloomington.

The memorial service for Bob will be at 10:00a.m. Saturday, May 14, 2011 at Bethel Lutheran Church with Pastor Andrew Nelson officiating.  Visitation will be held from 9:30a.m. to 10:00a.m. Saturday at the church.  Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 92.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Macken Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com