Brother Francis L. “Fran” Akins

Brother Francis L. “Fran” Akins, 84, died in Battle Creek on Tuesday morning, October 25, 2011. Fran was born February 17, 1927, in Battle Creek. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Wanda M. Phillips, two daughters, a son, 3 grandsons, a granddaughter, and two nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, his parents; and 2 brothers.

Fran was an active member of Colegrove-Woodruff Camp No. 22, SUVCW, in Marshall, the Calhoun County Historical Society and the South Side Bible Church. His Civil War ancestor was 2LT Nicholas Devereaux, Co. B., 14th Michigan Vol. Infantry, a Great-Great Uncle. He was an active member of the Honor/Color Guard. Arrangements have been handled by the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home.

Funeral services were held October 28, 2011 at the South Side Bible Church 4515 W. Beckley Road, Battle Creek. Entombment followed at Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to the church. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com., or sent to the home address, 22525 Pine Lake Road, Battle Creek, MI 49014.