"To the family and friends of Larry Akkerman, I would like to express my deepest and heartfelt condolences. I am truly sorry for the lost that your family is feeling. When ever we lose such a caring and loving person, it is the hardest experience that any of us can go thru. And because of that my thoughts and prayers are with your family. During this extremely difficult time, please turn to God for comfort and support. He promise to give your family the strength needed in order to endure this great lost. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4) Something else that can bring your family comfort is cherishing the wonderful memories that you have of Mr. Larry. These precious memories will console the family in the day's ahead. "
In loving memory of
Larry D. Akkerman
February 24, 1943 - January 8, 2017
Larry D. Akkerman, 73, of Parkersburg, IA, formerly of Wellsburg, IA passed away Sunday, January 8, 2017, at Cedar Valley Hospice House, in Waterloo, IA. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 12, 2017, at the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, in Ackley, IA. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 11, 2017 , at the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, in Ackley. Interment will be at St. Peters Church Cemetery, in rural Wellsburg. A memorial has been established in his name. The Conrad Chapel of the Anderson Funeral Homes has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonfhs.com
Larry was born February 24, 1943 to Henry and Marie (Smit) Akkerman, in Marshalltown, IA. He graduated from Wellsburg High School, in 1961 and attended the University of Denver. Larry was united in marriage to Kathie Knutson Diamond on June 15, 1979 at the Little Brown Church, in Nashua, IA. He farmed the rural Wellsburg area retiring in 2008. Larry often said he retired in 2008 but continued to work on the farm. He was a member of the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church (formerly Faith Presbyterian). Larry served many years on the Iowa Corn Promotion Board and was a director of the Pine Lake Corn Processors. He enjoyed Nascar racing, spending time in Tennessee. The highlight of his life was spending time with his grandchildren.
Larry will be missed by his wife, Kathie, a daughter, Melissa (Ryan) West of Maryville, TN, a son, Tim (Robbyn) Diamond of Wellsburg, three grandchildren; Claire Diamond, Colton Diamond, and Aubrey West, a sister, Joyce Blythe of Lake Ozark, MO, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, Dennis, a brother in law, Wayne Blythe, and a great nephew, Treye Blythe.
Tributes
"I have good memories from working with Larry on Grundy County Soybean and Corn Board back before the two merged for annual dinners. And with Kathie on the Grundy County Extension Council. Our thoughts are with you in mourning your loss."
"Kathy and family, I am so very sorry to learn that Larry has passed away. Hugs and prayers to all of you."
"Kathy and family, Our condolences to each of you in the loss of Larry. What a special guy sure to be missed by everyone. Praying for you to find comfort and healing in all those memories created over the years together. Ron and Laurie Bates"
"I'm so sorry for your loss my prayers are with you through this tough time. My memory of Melisa's dad is one from her wedding when he danced with his beautiful daughter. The look on his face was pure joy! Love to you all Donna Rasnick"
"No specific memory- just lots of kindness, gentleness, great love for the Lord and his families. Larry was a very dear man and will greatly missed by all who had the good fortune of knowing him!!!!"
"So sorry, Kathie. We always enjoyed the time you spent with us at St. Peter;s. May God give you strength for the days ahead. Vivian"
"Remember him for many reasons, but always that he was nice to me. Sorry for the loss of your brother Joyce."
"Our precious Friend, a man with a Big Heart, a true follower of Jesus, and lived his life by example. We miss you all ready, yet it was time for your Divine Appointment to go Home to your Father's House. We Love you and will see you on the other side of Jordan!"