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Vernon Akes Obituary
Vernon Dale Akes, a beloved resident of Albuquerque, transitioned from this life on Thursday, June 1, 2023. He found peace in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family.
He is survived by his wife, Chrissy Thompson Akes; and his children, Jeremy Salazar and Lindsey Salazar. Jeremy is currently in a loving relationship with Luis Carrillo, while Lindsey is engaged to Will Benson, who blessed Vern's life with a grandson; Theo Henry Benson, born on Wednesday, March 1, 2023.
He also leaves behind his sisters, Lee Ann, Aline, Marta, Michele, and Ann, along with many other relatives and friends who remember him fondly. Vern was blessed with the companionship of his loyal pets - his three dogs, Loki, Zona, and Teddy, and cat Mimi, who miss him greatly.
He was preceded in his journey by his parents, Dr. Leonard and Helen Akes; his brother, Dr. Lindy Akes; and his sister, Dixie Cozart.
Born on Sunday, August 28, 1955, Vern was a proud alumnus of McCurdy School in Espanola, where he completed all 12 grades. He pursued higher education at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colorado. Vern received a bachelor's degree in psychology and later at the University of New Mexico, where he earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Vern's professional career culminated at GE, where he retired from his role as a laser process quality engineer.
Vern's passion for life extended beyond his work. He was an avid snow skier and cyclist, a dedicated swimmer, and a lifelong Lobo Club member who enthusiastically attended football and basketball games. His greatest joy, however, was spending quality time with his family.
We will host an event on Saturday, July 22, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. in Albuquerque to celebrate Vern's life. Please email his wife at [email protected] for information about the celebration. Donations in Vern's name may be directed to https://mccurdy.org/give-now/
Please also take a moment to visit our online guestbook for Vern at www.FrenchFunerals.com, where you can share your memories and offer condolences. His legacy of love and dedication will continue to live on through all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Vernon Akes
4 Entries
Anthony Gallegos
July 12, 2023
I am still shocked and deeply sadden that Vernon has passed. His unwavering kindness and friendship was so appreciated and abundant, Every time he saw you he approached you with a big smile and always wanted to know how you are doing. I will miss seeing him at the Lobo Games standing at the southern end of the Pit or walking around with Chrissy and Kevin H.. I'll never forget the times he took me up flying, and one particular time we did a cross country to Phoenix and upon returning to the Sunport at Cutter's FBO there was a large 727 jet called the Capitalist's Tool which we found out from the pilots was owned by Malcom Forbes and was in ABQ to pick-up a couple of the children who were riding Harley's in northern NM and Colorado. Soon after we both landed, we were able to speak to the pilots, and Vernon struck up a conversation with them. As we talked, they offered to show us through the plane. Amazing tour to see a private jet of this size and affluence. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers, and never forgotten. Thank you for your friendship, God Bless
Eugene Cordova
July 3, 2023
My Condolences to the Akes family, I worked with Vern at General Electric and always enjoyed him telling about his time growing up in Espanola. "El Pelo Rojo" (Red Hair) was his street name he would tell me and we would laugh at him cruising the Boulevard in his '65 Chevy lowrider. I knew it was all BS but that was Vern's humorous side and I enjoyed that about him
MICHAEL ANDREW MARTINEZ
July 2, 2023
Rest in peace Vernon nice working with you mike Martinez say hi to Isabel she worked for your father
Kathy Lamar
July 2, 2023
Always enjoyed my conversations with Vern. He was always smiling, always positive, always had an answer. He made working at G.E. better. RIP, Vern.
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