Ronald Akins

It saddens our hearts to announce the passing of Ronald Akins of North Canton on March 9, 2024. He is no longer a part of our daily lives, but we are joyful knowing he has so bravely entered God's heavenly home. Regardless of how you met Ron or how long you knew him - decades, years, days or hours - he made an instant impact on your heart. He made it clear to you he was blessed and would share with you his love for Jesus through words and actions. He loved his family, friends, church and community. He would not want us to list his many accomplishments. Instead, he would love for you to feel the passion and purpose he had in helping anyone he met with nourishment for the body and soul, especially UrbanArk Ministries where he served as board president and gave many volunteer hours.

His life began in Cleveland, Ohio and life took him to many other places. He attended high school at the Georgia Military Academy in College Park, Georgia. He then immediately enlisted in the Marine Corps where he traveled and served for the next four years. He returned to Cleveland, Ohio where he began a 40+ year career with J&L Steel. He was transferred from Cleveland to Hennepin, Illinois and then finally back to Louisville, Ohio all while working on a Master's degree.

Ron was a loving husband and a blessing to his wife, Trudy. A loving father to Rhonda Healey (Michael). Also, to his adult step-children: Kelly Reilman (Ray), and Chad Robenstine. He loved his grandchildren: Jacke Healey (Danielle), Kelley Healey (Samantha), Aaron Reilman and Zander Reilman. Ron had a special place in his heart for his great-grandson, Leo Healey. Ron spent the last 53 years in Canton, Ohio, sharing his journey with family, friends, parishioners, co-workers, volunteers and community. He will be remembered for his kind smile, joyful heart and his "God Bless You" or "Jesus Loves You." Our hearts are heavy and sad, and we miss him, but we know he chose to start his heavenly journey and we are at peace knowing we will see him again, where he will welcome us into our heavenly home. Good Night, Sweetheart.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 7707 Market Avenue North, Canton, OH 44721, with Pastor Anders Davidson officiating. Friends and family may call three hours (9:00 AM- 12:00 PM) prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to UrbanArk Ministries in Ron's memory. Arrangements entrusted to the Mark R. Vrabel Funeral Home, North Canton, OH 330-452-4041