MICHAEL AKER Obituary

MICHAEL M. AKER, 78, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in Fort Wayne, Ind. He was born on June 27, 1944 in Fort Wayne, Ind. Mike graduated from North Side High School in 1963, and after graduation, started his lifelong career in the construction industry. He had a diverse range of hobbies and passions, all of which exemplified his dedication to family, adventure, craftsmanship and community service. Among his cherished pastimes were spending quality time with his loved ones, creating lasting memories during vacations to Florida, and indulging in the thrill of motorcycles and cars. His commitment to public safety and helping others was evident through his role as a firefighter, embodying a deep sense of bravery. Mike proudly and fiercely served the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 36 years, from 1969 to 2005, when he retired as a Battalion Chief. His dedication, respect and commitment to the brothers and sisters of the Fort Wayne Fire Department was unmatched. Mike was a selfless, compassionate, genuine, hard-working hero who cherished his loved ones and embraced new experiences. His legacy will leave a lasting positive impact on the entire community and all who knew and loved him for generations to come. Mike and Carolyn Aker committed their lives to each other on Aug. 28, 1965 and celebrated 57 years of marriage last year. They raised four incredible children who have grown to be successful, kind and hard-working individuals, none of which would be possible without him. He loved his family and was so proud of each and every one of them. He was a hero to many, a friend to all, and would do anything for anyone. He was the most loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be missed and remembered forever. Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn; and his four children, Jill (Ray) Schmitz, Lisa (Jim) Fry, Jenny (Doug) Relue and Michael (Penny) Aker. He was a grandfather to eight grandchildren, Megan, Madison, Nick, Tyler, Taylor, Luke, Robby and Wesley. He was a proud great-grandfather to his first great-grandchild, Eva. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russel (Ruth) Aker, Alice (Arthur) Moser; and his siblings, Dave Aker and Bonnie Durnell. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 14318 Lima Road, Fort Wayne, with a calling at 10 a.m. A showing will take place from 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at FairHaven Funeral Home, 6557 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne. Burial will follow service at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations and memorials can be made to the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum or Resurrection Lutheran Church. To sign the online guestbook visit www.fairhavenfortwayne.com

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