George Akers

George Quentin Akers, 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at his log cabin home in Yreka, California. George was born on July 4, 1944 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania to James and Ann Akers. George was predeceased by his only sibling, 15-year-old Pamela Akers, who was killed in a tragic car accident when George was only 19. George stayed bravely by her side at the hospital when she died. This event sparked the compassion for which George was later well known in his work as a nurse. George was a Sergeant in the Air Force, serving in Thule, Greenland, and in Omaha, Nebraska. Upon his honorable discharge, he and his former wife, Marnie, traveled across the United States and Canada in their MGA sports car. After finally settling in San Francisco they welcomed their only child, Annie. Thereafter, they moved to Susanville, California, where George attended Lassen College. Later, they moved to Westwood, California, where George worked in forestry. In 1974, George accepted a job with Oak Knoll Ranger District, and moved to Siskiyou County. He later bought the log cabin located on Miner Street in Yreka, where he has resided for the past 35 years. During that time, he became well known to many through his landscaping business. Then, in 1987, George attended COS and SOSC, where he completed his Bachelor’s Degree and became a Registered Nurse. He was employed by Siskiyou General Hospital (now Fairchild Medical Center) until January of this year. During his time as a nurse, he gained a reputation for compassion, a fine sense of humor, and excellent skill. George especially loved the outdoors. Over the years, he became very knowledgeable of the backwoods of Siskiyou County while hiking, back-packing, repelling, kayaking, and fishing. An avid skier for many years, he enjoyed both cross-country and down-hill. He also enjoyed riding his mountain bikes and going fishing. His family and friends will miss exchanging jokes with him over the excellent meals he prepared entirely on the barbeque. George will be greatly missed by his only daughter, Ann E. DeBenedetti, son-in-law Joseph DeBenedetti, and his beloved grandchildren, Bella Erin and Joseph “Isaac.” George is also survived by his loyal dog, a whippet named “Chase,” who will continue to reside with the family. At George’s request, no memorial services will be held. However, the family has prepared a touching video that can be viewed online at http://youtu.be/-FvN04wbh9I. Condolences may be addressed to the family at P.O. Box 1141, Yreka, CA.

George Akers

July 4, 1944 - February 27, 2013