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Ferris Akel Obituary
A "GIANT" has passed.
Ferris Akel left this world peacefully on Friday, May 19, 2017 with his family at his side. He was predeceased by his paternal grandmother Delia, his parents George and Georgette, his Uncle Metrie "Mike" and Aunt Renee, and his "twin" cousin Lillian. He is survived by Louise, his wife and best friend of 55 years, their five children Stephanie (Jeff), Nicole (Paul), Ferris III, Martine (John), Philip (Bridget) and their six grandchildren Giuliana, Cameron, Finbarr, Fritz, Isabelle, and Madeline. Ferris is also survived by his brothers, George (Sally) and Ronald (Beth), his partners both in business and in life. Ferris leaves behind his cousins Yvette, Madeline, and Renee, as well as his nieces and nephews Andrea (Ibrahim), George III (Laura), Jeffrey (Erin), Donald, Kara (John), and several great nieces and nephews. Having lost his own father at the young age of 21, Ferris set aside his personal ambitions, focusing instead on the care of his family and management of their business, Binghamton Giant Markets, Inc. Determined to complete his education, Ferris tended to the business by day, and studied at Harpur College by night, earning his degree in 1959. Ferris' dedication to the community was unwavering. He was Chairman of the Dr. G. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation. He served on the Binghamton University School of Management Advisory Board, and was named to the Binghamton University Harpur Forum School of Honor. Ferris also served on the boards of directors of United Health Services, Inc., UHS Professional Home Care, Inc., UHS Twin Tier Home Health, BSB Bank & Trust Company, The Binghamton Symphony, The Roberson Museum and Science Center and others, all while providing support to numerous organizations throughout the community. The family wishes to acknowledge and sincerely thank each and every physician, nurse, and member of the Binghamton General Hospital staff involved in Ferris' care, for their professionalism, compassion, and kindness. The family would also like to express its most sincere gratitude to the physician friends of the family who made numerous trips to the hospital, providing guidance, solace, and companionship. Although there will be no calling hours, a funeral service in celebration of Ferris' life will be held at Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church, 44 Main Street, Binghamton, on Wednesday, May 24th at 10:30 in the morning, with the Rev. Glenn Mahaffey officiating. A private burial service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the UHS Foundation, Binghamton University Foundation, or Trinity Memorial Episcopal Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ferris Akel
Sponsored by the Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin.
Tony Khair
May 20, 2018
Our best thoughts and souvenirs to our beloved nephew Ferris, may he rest in the Peace of Lord. Tony & Janine.
Ron Capalaces
May 29, 2017
To George Akel & Family on the passing of Ferris George Akel II. I never had the pleasure of meeting Ferris, but knowing the Akel Family through George, his younger brother, and Central High classmate of mine. I can say that the Akel Family is one of great families of the Southern Tier. Its development of the Giant grocery brand became a staple in the lives of all residents. Its charitable giving to support countless causes is a hallmark of a caring class of people.
Please accept our prayers and condolences for Ferris. We thank all the Akel's for what they have given to the greater community and for their outstanding example of what "family" really means.
Deborah Root-Pfrommer
May 28, 2017
Sincere condolences on your loss, Ferris III and family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Deb DeRooy
May 27, 2017
Heartfelt condolences to the Akel family. May all who loved Mr. Akel II find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their grief. My sympathies...
Diana Drucker
May 27, 2017
I'm so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you, Ferris III
Michael Hunsinger
May 26, 2017
RIP, Mr. Akel. A tough,but fair employer. I am most definitely proud to work at store#4 from 1996 until early retirement in 2013.
Teresa Heaton
May 25, 2017
Sending sincere sympathy to the whole Akel family. It was truly a privilege to work for Ferris. He will be missed by all.
Basha's
May 24, 2017
We will miss you, a lot.
It's not the same without you.
Lynn Meier
May 24, 2017
Sincere sympathy to Ferris III and the Akel family on the loss of your father, husband, grandfather. May your memories be rich and comforting.
May 24, 2017
My condolences to the Akel family. Ferris III we have enjoyed your bird tours for years and hope for many more. Your father sounds like a wonderful man.
Judith Brennan
May 24, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family. May all your memories be joyful ones.
Eva Gillan
May 24, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Akel Family. RIP Ferris.
Angelo Gallo
May 24, 2017
To the Akel Family: my thoughts and prayers are with you on the passing of Ferris. I will miss listening to his wit and discussion on various topics. The community has lost a respected businessman and benefactor to many organizations. Remember all the good times you shared together.
Joe & Louise Stillittano
May 24, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers to the family. He was a true gentlemen and a corner stone of the triple cities.
May 24, 2017
My heartfelt sympathy is extended to the entire Akel family. He will be greatly missed. It was my honor to work for his company until I retired.
Ruth Croft
Taylor Family
May 24, 2017
So sorry for your loss, we have known Ferris for many years. I remember him as being a kind man. He will certainly be missed by the community.
Mark Hancock
May 24, 2017
To the Akel family. I am very sorry for your loss. Ferris gave me my very first job at the Giant when I was only 15 years old. He was a gentleman and a special person. May he rest in peace.
Thomas D'Angelo
May 24, 2017
It is with sincere heartfelt sympathies that I write this note about my friend Ferris. As a young salesman Mr Akel was one of the first grown ups to take me serious, and we did business for many years. Over the years he became my mentor, hero, Coffee & Lunch buddy and we had lengthy conversations of the world in which we live in. I credit him for much of my success in my career. He is with out a doubt one of the finest human beings I have ever encountered. To his beloved Louise, children grand children my envy for all the years of having him in your life's from day to day. My admiration to the brothers George & Ron and family's , the Akel family has been pillars in the community. It is with out a doubt that the Heavenly Father has called him to accend into heaven, and we will have wonderful memories of him. Prayers and love from your friend Tommy D'Angelo
Betty Jean Tronkowski
May 23, 2017
Sincere sympathy to the entire Akel family on your great loss. Ferris was a very special man, hard working, tough but very caring and kind. He was never to busy to ask about myself and my family. I was honored to be one of his many employees.
A favorite photo taken by son, Ferris 2013
Mary Monson
May 23, 2017
Although I did not know Mr. Akel personally, I am an admirer of his son, Ferris and all his selfless time and effort in sharing his bird camera work and research with Cornell Lab of Ornithology. You and your husband raised an outstanding son, Mrs. Akel. Condolences to you and your family during this sad time in your life. (photo: Red-tailed Hawk)
Connie WagonerDye
May 23, 2017
So very sorry for your loss Ferrislll.You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Ima
May 23, 2017
My sincere condolences to Ferris III and the Akel family.
Karen Klecar
May 23, 2017
So sorry to hear about Ferris' passing. He built a powerful legacy in our area. We need to hail such champions and recognize that they have created the mortar which is the foundation of our community.... Thank you, Ferris.... Rest well...
Karen Klecar
Permelia Ehle
May 23, 2017
My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Akel . Special thoughts to my friend Ferris lll . Motherhen from the Cornell Hawk nest . Permelia Ehle.
Barry Blakeslee
May 23, 2017
Such a giagantic customer and friend. Always treated me with tremendous respect and generosity. My condolences go out to the entire family......
Elizabeth (Liz) Platt-Pecoraro
May 23, 2017
so sorry for your loss. i last saw your husband, father, brother at my own fathers funeral Ferris along with his brothers were a great trio. At one time or another most of my family worked for at the giant. I am sure Ferris will be missed.
Shawn Berg
May 23, 2017
My thoughts are with George, Ronnie and Ferris' family.
Sad to hear about this. Enjoyed working with him in my time at Akel Wholesale.
Shawn Berg
Sylvia Kerber
May 23, 2017
Our heart is with the family. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
Bill & Debbie O'Brien
May 23, 2017
No family has done more, served on more boards, donated to more causes and shared their time, money & talent with more people then the Akel family. We will all miss Ferris in countless ways for he was the " Community Leader" that everyone went to when something needed to get done.
Our thoughts & prayers are with the entire Akel family.
Robert Hanye
May 23, 2017
We send our deep condolences to the circle of Akel family and friends. Mr. Akel showed great generosity and kindness in his community leadership and support.
Bob and Sue Hanye
Tony & Janine Khair
May 23, 2017
Ferris we will miss you.
Our thoughts go to Louise, your children and grand children and to your brothers.
We remember the good time we spent together in Lebanon and the United States and will always keep the memory of the great person you were.
Your uncle-brother Tony and Janine
Laura Davis
May 23, 2017
On behalf of the Broome County Arts Council and its Board of Directors, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Akel family. Ferris was a strong supporter of our community and will be missed.
Bob & Nancy Ray
May 23, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the entire Akel family on the loss of a true "Giant" in respects to family, community and industry. I had the pleasure to call on Ferris for a good number of years and found him to be a tough, astute yet very fair businessman. He will be missed by the entire Binghamton community to which he dedicated so much of his life to in so many ways.
God bless your entire family as well as your very loving memories of him.
Diane Novak
May 23, 2017
Deepest condolences to the Akel family. Ferris was a tough and accomplished businessman and will be missed by many.
Brian Curtis
May 23, 2017
We'd like to send our condolences to the Akel family. - I had the pleasure of working for this great man and will always remember the Akel family.
Sincerely,
Brian and Wendi Curtis
Chenango Bridge, NY
Arnold and Ellen Loew
May 23, 2017
We'd like to send our condolences to the Akel family. Sorry to hear about Ferris's passing.
Sincerely, Dr. Arnold and Ellen Loew
Hutchinson Island, fl.
Raymond Simeck
May 23, 2017
I delivered 7-up to the Giant markets in the 80's what a great company to work with. Made many friends through the Giant markets. What a great family. The Akel family did so much for the community. Ferris Rest In Peace. Ray and Sharon Simeck Englewood Beach Florida
Barbara & Gary Kraus
May 23, 2017
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Phil & Mary Burkholder
May 23, 2017
Please accept our deepest sympathies at this sad moment. Take comfort in a life well lived.
Mark Goldman
May 23, 2017
Louise, Stephanie, George, Ron, this is Mark Goldman. I worked for Giants for many years with Ferris, Uncle Mike and Pat Hastings. Ferris was a wonderful man and treated all of us as a part of his family. Thankfully I saw him just last year and was able to thank him for being there for me. My heart is broken. He was a wonderful man and I was very lucky to have known him and his family. My sincere sympathies go out to Louise, Stephanie, George, Ron and all the Akels. God Bless you all.
May 22, 2017
With heavy hearts we express our deepest sympathy to the Akel family. Ferris was a wonderful friend to many and a giving, unselfish contributor to the entire community. He will truly be missed. We are so sorry for your loss.
Janet and Harvey Levine
Michelle and Terry DeLucca
May 22, 2017
We are so sorry for the Akels great loss.. He was a man that worked hard to provide much opportunity for so many in this community. We will always remember him fondly.
geralyn yousuf
May 22, 2017
A truly special man. He loved his family, friends and the Binghamton community as much as they loved, and respected, him. Always a kind word, a smile, a story, and words of wisdom. The pain of his loss is great. I hope the beautiful memories will give the family strength to get through the next few weeks. His life has left a significant legacy in his hometown and on all the people whose lives he touched. He will be missed but never forgotten.
Joseph Booth
May 22, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Ferris' passing. I have known him all of my life. He was a very kind, compassion, and giving person.
Gates Murchie
May 22, 2017
Mr. Akel was always a supporter of the Broome County Celtic Pipes and Drums and, as a member of that group, I remember his kind words and gentle sense of humor. Men like him have always been few in number and great in influence. He will be missed.
Allen Francis
May 22, 2017
To the entire Akel family. So sorry for your loss. Ferris was a strong man and cared for the community. Prayers and thoughts go out to the entire family
Allen & Vicki Francis
Mayor John Bertoni
May 22, 2017
Getting to know Ferris was such a blessing.He was a kind man who understood life and its needs for imself,his Family and others.He had many friends in Endicott who he shared a morning coffee with almost dailey and lunches and evening activities.I will remember him as so many will and The Endicott coffee haunts will miss him.
Gene Kinne II
May 22, 2017
To the Akel Family, I'm sorry for your loss. He was a very fair man to work for at Giant Markets. For what, and all he did for Broome County, he will be missed.
Gene Kinne II
May 22, 2017
To the Akel family, I'm sorry for your loss. He was a very fair man to work for at Giant Markets. For what, and all he did for Broome County, he will be missed.
Butch Trencansky
May 22, 2017
I only met ferris a few years ago at the north side coffee shop in endicott he was a very nice person god bless ferris! And his family
Butch
Brenda Kitchner
May 22, 2017
So sorry for your loss Ferris. It's so hard to lose a parent. My thoughts are with you.
May 22, 2017
Ferris was an amazing person, gave so much of himself to the Community.
Know that we care & extend our very deepest sympathies to the entire Family.
Suzy & Barry Benjamin
University Park, Florida
Scott Hawley
May 22, 2017
Sincerest condolences to the Akels. I hope you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. A work ethic second to none. Thanks for building the Giant.
Patricia L Reynolds
May 22, 2017
Please accept my deepest sympathy. Ferris was a pleasure for me to work with during his involvement with the Binghamton University Foundation and the Harpur Forum. He was supportive and generous and a true leader in our community. He will be missed greatly. The entire Akel family is in my thoughts and prayers during this time of loss.
Dan Ritzman
May 22, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Akel Family. May Ferris rest in peace.
Dan & Libbie Ritzman
May 22, 2017
Our sincere condolences to the Akel family. Ferris had a full life, well lived. By any measure he was a winner, as were all of us who had the good fortune to know him.
Judy & Gary Farneti
John Shantillo
May 22, 2017
Sorry for you lost. He was a great man and a giving man.
May 22, 2017
So sorry for your loss..you are in my thoughts and prayers!
Mr. Akel was a very caring man and sure cared about his customers like me. Sure miss the Giant Markets..
Eileen
Alexis Pleus Dugon
May 22, 2017
Oh my. I was so fond of this man! My condolences to the entire family, but Philip in particular who I worked for on projects as well as for his father. Always a pleasant, cordial, friendly and poised business man who I respected so much. And, Philip reminds me so much of his father. You have the distinct honor of carrying all that your father was - forward. All my best to this family as you take your grief journey.
karl bernthon
May 22, 2017
Wow another giant legend passes on. I was his pepsi salesman for 16 years he was always fair with me and demanded excellence in anybody who was serviced by the vendors which he respected in me. I won many contests because of ferris good heart. H e will be missed deeply and i will always think of him as a customer and as a good friend
Bob Bush
May 22, 2017
To the Akel Family
I'm so sorry for your loss. He was a great person to work for. A pillar of the community and a pure gentleman. He will be greatly missed.
catherine neill
May 22, 2017
i am so sorry for your lost George was a great person and a friend my husband grew up with Ronnie
Brian Kradjian
May 22, 2017
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Akel Family. Ferris was a wonderful man, leader, & community benefactor. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family- Anahit & Brian Kradjian
Brian O"Neil
May 22, 2017
Thought's and prayers with all the FAMILY during this time.. Ferris was a strong and driven person. He will be missed... I have lots of memories to go along with the 30 years I had with the Giant Market/Akel Wholesale business and my interactions with Ferris.
Fred Russell
May 22, 2017
Dear Louise and family
Great men do not come this way often. Ferris was a founding member of the " Foundation of Broome County " yet better known as a true Gentleman . He is with the Lord Jesus [ checking on the prices of produce as I write ] May you find peace
Pat Harding
May 22, 2017
My sincere condolences to the Akel family. Working at the Giant on Court Street was the first real job I ever had. Ferris helped instill a sense of what work ethic was in us kids. It was my fondest memories of my youth working for him and the Akel family. God bless his memory and our prayers are with you all.
May 22, 2017
Ferris was a true gentleman and leader. I will always remember him sharing his business advice with me. It was always clear how committed he was to his family and the community. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to the Akel Family.
Dick & Roxanne D'Attilio
Thomas Nasoni
May 22, 2017
I am so sadden by his passing Ferris was a great man a respected business man and a gentleman. He will be missed by all who knew him. R.I.P.
Luigi DiRienzo
May 22, 2017
My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to the entire Akel family.
Luigi M. DiRienzo
Evelyn {Evie} Hastings Contro
May 22, 2017
What a great legacy to Broome County and family: he was one of a kind, thank you for years of service to us all.
Judy (Niles) Bennett
May 22, 2017
My condolences to the Akel family. I enjoyed working for Ferris Sr. at the Court st. Store. He was very special to me as you are Louise. May God bless all of you.
James Kalka
May 22, 2017
My sincerest condolences to the entire Akel family at the loss of a very fine man and my first employer. I will never forget what I learned from him in the business world.
R.I.P. my friend.
May 22, 2017
Our deepest condolences and love go out to the entire Akel family.
-The Desko Family
Patti Johnson
May 22, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Sorry for your loss. He was wonderful man to know and work for. Condolences.
May 22, 2017
My condolences to all the Akel family. A good man to work for. Mary Ann Weiland.
Kellianne Padgett
May 22, 2017
My sincerest condolences go to the Akel family. The moment I began working for the Giant, I knew how wonderful this family is, and my thoughts and prayers are with you now. Rest in Peace Mr. Akel.
Laura George Hess
May 21, 2017
Dearest Louise - love, thoughts, and prayers are sent to you and your family. Mother and Dad will be there to greet Ferris, their dear, dear friend.With all my love Laura
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