G. Robert Akam, 80, of Ormond Beach, FL passed away on May 9, 2017 at Halifax Health Medical Center. He succumbed to injuries suffered in an automobile accident.
Bob was born in Methuen, Massachusetts on July 15, 1936 to Walter and Gladys (Kiley) Akam. He married Mary Ann Bennett, the love of his life, on December 28, 1958 in Methuen.
Bob was a lifelong scholar. He graduated from Norwich University in 1958 and earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Old Dominion University. He was a graduate of the Army War College, the Navy War College, and the NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy.
Bob was a patriot. He honorably served his country during a distinguished 31 year Army career in the Infantry and Special Forces. His assignments posted him throughout the United States and overseas to Germany, Belgium, Austria, Korea, and Okinawa. His many sacrifices to the Nation included two combat tours in Vietnam and earned him numerous military awards and decorations and the rank of Colonel. He was awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Air Medal.
Bob was a historian. After retiring from the Army, Bob and Mary Ann settled in Ormond Beach. For over 25 years, he contributed his time and expertise to preserving the Casements and heritage of Ormond Beach. As the Alumni Board of Directors Vice President, University Fellow and Admissions Ambassador for Norwich University, Bob provided dedicated support to his school's legacy.
The pride and joy of Bob's life was his family. He was a faithful husband, survived by his wife, Mary Ann. He was a dutiful brother to Beverly (Dane) Kimball. He was a devoted father to Karin (Mike) Kline, Bob (Melissa) Akam, and Kristen (Michael) Denson. He was a proud grandfather to Elizabeth Kline, Ryan Akam, Greg Kline, Matthew Kline, and Benjamin Denson. He was a loyal and trusted uncle to many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Bob's life was held on Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at the Lohman Funeral Home Rockefeller Chapel, 733 W. Granada Blvd., Ormond Beach, FL 32174. The family received visitors from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 3:30. Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, June 13th at 11:30 am at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting Bob's causes: The Casements Guild, Wounded Warriors, Shriners Hospital for Children, or Norwich University.
Bob never met a stranger. He was a great chum, chivalrous gentleman, and caring friend to all. He touched many lives and will be deeply missed. Always on the go - volunteering, taking photographs, traveling, attending family functions, or helping those in need - God caught Bob stopped at a traffic light and brought him home. Additional condolences may be shared at http://www.missionparks.com/obituaries/Colonel-Retired-G-Akam/