Patrick Thomas Akins

He graduated from South Sioux City High School and went on to spend his life as a self-employed entrepreneur, always seeking new ventures and opportunities with energy and creativity. His work took him across the country, and he found great joy in his road trips, especially when accompanied by his beloved wife Nancy or his grandchildren.

On May 17, 1962, Pat married the love of his life, Nancy Ann (Peterson) Akins. Together, they raised two children: Patrick (Linda) Akins of Flower Mound, Texas, and Michalla (Scott Willamson) Schartz of Lincoln, Nebraska. Their life was full of adventure, shared laughter, and deep love for family. It was this family that affectionately nicknamed him “Pa” and soon he was known to nearly everyone by that simple, but genuine, moniker.

Pat had a wide array of interests. He especially loved playing cards and board games, reading about U.S. history and historical biographies, and sharing stories. His favorite times were those spent surrounded by loved ones, and we could always count on him to remember the kids’ peccadillos. Known for his sense of humor and resilient spirit, he was a cancer and stroke survivor who faced life’s challenges with grace and optimism.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Nancy; his two children and their spouses; his brother Richard (Peggy) Akins of South Sioux; eleven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, ten brothers and sisters, and son-in-law Pat Schartz.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 510 South 33rd Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. Visitation will take place from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service. Pat will be laid to rest in a private family ceremony at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln.

Floral memorials may be sent through Urban Trail Gardens (402-742-4058), honoring Pat’s love of planting flowers and spring gardening. Cash memorials will go toward planting and dedicating a redbud tree in his memory at Southlake Village Rehabilitation & Care Center, Inc.

Pat was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. An innovative entrepreneur and a man of unflagging optimism, he and Nancy approached life as an adventure. They found joy in the simple things, faced trials with laughter, and were always grateful for their blessings. “Pickup Pa” will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

We will remember him when we hear children laughing, birds singing after a spring rain, or smell the crisp scent of burning leaves in autumn. We will feel his presence when the sun warms our face or when the smell of freshly cut hay lingers on a hot summer day.