Vernon Alfred Akers, 86, passed away Thursday, April 16 at Living Center West Care Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa surrounded by his family.

He was born February, 22, 1929 in Alburnett, Iowa to James and Edith (Young) Akers, the 3rd of four children.  Vernon graduated from McKinley High School in Cedar Rapids.  His Uncle Eldon was his mentor.  Vernon followed in his uncle's footsteps by joining the Marine Corp in 1948.  He served 4 years in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War.  After returning to the states, he married Inez Jennings January 20, 1952 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and had three beautiful children: Julia, David, and Sandra.   

Vernon was a craftsman and spent hours in his workshop.  He enjoyed dancing, camping, and traveling the United States, but mostly the warm states where Inez could put her toes in the sand.  After retiring with 31 exemplary years with the Cedar Rapids Police Department, he and Inez split their time between Iowa and Mission, Texas.  In Texas, Vernon enjoyed calling bingo and dancing.  Inez passed away in 2002.  Having much love to share, Vernon married Leota Kline July 1, 2005 at which time they moved to Anamosa, Iowa.  Vernon and Leota spent their time dancing, and baking. They also enjoyed a few winters in Mission, Texas cutting up the dance floor.   

He was preceded in death by his wife, Inez; his parents; siblings, James Akers, Jr., Rachel Long, Harley Akers; and grandson, Samuel Cox. 

Vernon is survived by his wife, Leota; his children Julia (John) Bernot, David Akers, Sandra (Martin) Cox; grandchildren Angela (Don) Moseman, Kristina (Courtney) Good, Nathaniel Cox, Alex Cox; great grandchildren Kasandra Bernot, David Bernot, Charlie Good, Annabelle Moseman; and many nieces and nephews, along with Leota’s extended family. 

Services will be at 3:00 PM on Friday April 24, 2015 at the Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories where friends may call after 2: 00 PM. Paula Meyers, Cedar Memorial Certified Celebrant will officiate. Entombment with military rites and honors by the Cedar Rapids Police Honor Guard at the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

“The Akers and Kline families would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Unity Point Hospice team and the staff of Living Center West for all the love and care they showed to Vern and Leota.” 

Cards can be mailed to the family at 515 Wilson Ave Dr SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.