John "Dale" Akers, 91, of East Peoria, passed away at 3:12 am Thursday, February 17, 2022 at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Peoria.

He was born November 22, 1930 in Quincy, IL to Irvin R. and Ethel M. Frey Akers.  He married Goldie Mae Launius in Peoria on October 18, 1959.

She preceded him in death on October 30, 2015.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, seven brothers, and one sister.

Surviving are two sons, Todd (Darlene) Akers of Washington, David Akers of Florida; four grandchildren, Ryan Akers, Stephanie (Giovanni) Lopez, Todd Akers Jr., Brittany (Aaron) Volkmar; three great-grandchildren, Abram Lopez, Remi Lopez, and Cylus; two sisters, Pauline Hess, Lois (Don) Fessler; and several nieces and nephews.

Dale was a United States Navy Korean War Veteran.  He worked as a barber at Blackburn's Barber Shop in Peoria for 19 years, and as the head custodian at District 50 schools in Washington for 23 years before retiring.

He was a member of Averyville Baptist Church in East Peoria.  Dale enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  He will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6pm Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  His funeral service will be held at 10am Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at the funeral home with Pastor David L. Coyle officiating.  Burial will be at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Averyville Baptist Church.