Robert L. Akers

Robert Lacy Akers, age 91, went home to be with the Lord on February 2, 2025, in Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania. He was born on June 25, 1933 in St. Paul, Minnesota to the late Lacy Akers, a US Army soldier serving at the time at Fort Snelling, Minnesota, and Josephine Lowman his wife. Bob, following his dad’s example of service, was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he served from 1952-1960, mostly on the submarine tender, USS Orion (AS-18). He married the love of his life, Shirley May Gettier, on June 26, 1954 in Odenton, Maryland. Together, they shared 70 years full of love, laughter, friendship, challenges, and “Square Dancing”. He was a devoted father to Robert Michael (Beth) Akers, Christopher Wayne (Cathy) Akers, Diana Lynn (Jason) Akers-Bass. After serving in the Navy, Bob worked as a telecommunications lineman for 35 years and retired from Verizon (formally Bell Atlantic). Bob was an amazing handy man when he wasn’t at his full time job. He could pretty much do anything and didn’t need to hire anyone for repairs. He also loved to crab and fish with friends and family. He enjoyed golfing and going on various cruises with his wife and friends. He and Shirley shared a passion for Square Dancing and knew how to “Do-Si-Do” with the best of them. Bob always found humor in life, and loved to make people laugh. If he could make you laugh especially in his later years, it filled his heart with joy. Bob and Shirley lived 55 years in the same house in Glen Burnie, Maryland. They raised their three children there and created many beautiful family memories together. He and his family attended Resurrection Lutheran Church in Brooklyn Park, Maryland, and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Linthicum, Maryland. Bob and Shirley relocated to a retirement community six years ago where they continued to enjoy visits from their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Bob loved his eight grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them, celebrating life’s milestones, accomplishments, and family holidays. His precious grandchildren that he leaves behind are: Amber McGill, Lindsey Kulisiewicz, Justin (Katie) Akers, Autumn Akers, Lauren Evans, Risten Akers, Ryan Akers, Luke Ballesteros. He was also blessed with thirteen greatgrandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and love to the next generation. Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, Inc., 24 N. Second St., New Freedom, PA is assisting the family with arrangements.