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John Robert Akerson, age 79, of Palisade died Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

John was born February 2, 1939 at Center City, Minnesota the son of George and Alice (Erickson) Akerson. He grew up and attended schools in Lindstrom and graduated from Lindstrom High School in 1957. He then served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1960. He served in Sherman, Texas, Indianapolis, Indiana and Thuley, Greenland. He married Ardy Thompson on November 13, 1958 in Roseville, Minnesota. Upon his discharge they made their home in Lindstrom where he worked on a pipeline. He then went to school to become a draftsman. He worked for Smith Systems in Princeton and then for Arctic Cat before going to work for MOTEK in Cambridge, MN. where he worked in sales. He retired in 2001 and they built their retirement home on Round Lake near Palisade and have lived here since. He was a member of the Hilltop Chapel, the Aitkin Classic Car Club, MSRA, and the Up North Club. He enjoyed old cars, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and camping.

He is survived by his wife Ardy Akerson of Palisade, sons: Steven Akerson of Braham, MN, Todd Akerson of Cambridge, MN; grandchildren: Erin (Ryan) Ellis, Heather Akerson, David Akerson, Tori Akerson, Gregory Akerson; great grandchildren: Audriana Ellis, Rogan Ellis, Beckett Ellis, Anelia Ellis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son David, sister Nancy and step brother Norman.

A memorial service washeld Saturday, October 20, 2018 from the Journey North Church in Aitkin with Rev. Barry Hite officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at a later date in the Union Cemetery in Cambridge, Minnesota. Military honors  provided by the Aitkin American Legion and VFW Posts. Arrangements are with the Sorensen-Root-Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

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