Peter Akins

Peter H. Akins of Trumansburg passed away at home on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at the age of 68.

Pete was born in Seneca Falls on December 1, 1947, a son of the late Robert and Louise (Sargent) Akins. He graduated from Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and was a member of the Zeta Psi fraternity. He began working for the NYS Parks as a trash collector and remained with the parks system for many years, moving up to work as a ranger and patrolman. Pete worked at Dewitt Middle School for 17 years before taking a position at Ithaca High School as an earth science teacher, where he also worked for 17 years. His students will always fondly remember his love for teaching about the weather and geology. Pete also served as the Town of Covert Magistrate holding court in his own living room from time to time. After his retirement from Ithaca High School, he volunteered regularly at the Hillendale Golf Course, where he was also an active member, sought after golf partner, and cherished friend.

A Zeta Psi Fraternity member and long-time friend described Pete as a fraternity brother in every sense of the term. "Pete was always there to assist and support someone in a difficult situation and would never hesitate to help a brother experiencing academic difficulties," according to this individual. In addition, "Pete was always at the forefront of a party and was often known to play "Light My Fire" on his flaming, homemade keyboard." Furthermore, "Pete supported Zeta Psi for the remainder of his days and this remarkable individual will be truly missed," stated this fraternity member who closed with, "Pete, as always, in Tau Kappa Phi. Thank you."

The perennial prankster, a joke was never far. His sharp wit and sense of humor never failed to lighten the mood and brought smiles all around. Pete was always full of advice - some of it wise, and some of it utterly useless. His kindness and quiet generosity were exemplary qualities to be emulated. As a loving and adoring husband, doting and proud father, and kind and honest friend, Pete will truly be missed. The world is most certainly not prepared for the giant hole he has left in our hearts, in our lives, and in our community.

Pete is survived by his wife of 39 years, Connie Ged; two daughters, Sybil and Alissa Akins; sister, Kathy Akins; brother, Tom (Karen) Akins; and his furry, four legged grandchildren, Farah, Fatima, Stinky, and Hoover. In addition to his parents, Pete was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Anisa Akins.

The family will be present to receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00pm on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. A Time of Remembrance and Sharing will immediately follow at 4:00pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those that would like to make a contribution in Pete’s memory to kindly consider the Beverly Animal Shelter, 50 E. River Road, Waterloo, NY 13165 or the Interlaken Historical Society, PO Box 270, Interlaken, NY 14847.