AKERMAN, Harland

AKERMAN, Harland Boyd - August 8, 1918 - February 12, 2012 - Born in Westville, Nova Scotia to Caroline and David Akerman, Earl Woodger (Lucy) and Hilbert (Ruth) welcomed their new brother. Later, to an expanding Akerman clan - Carl (Bernie), Marvin (Loretta), Jean (Lloyd), Howard (Joan), Marion, and Dick (Kay) were born. Harland became his mother's right-hand helper in all her household and child rearing tasks. Church was a mainstay of the Akerman household. Growing up, he worked for farmers and cut lumber while attending school, and still found time for hunting, fishing and playing baseball. Harland was always up for new experiences and travels. He was selected for training in the RCAF as a pilot in WWII and served on many harrowing missions in Europe and Africa. He flew a Hurricane which required a lot of will, determination and skill to fly. In 1944, Harland became Pilot Officer assigned to a special Section. After the war, he returned home to marry Kathleen McLellan (1919-1958), attended Dalhousie University, and started a family. He relocated his family to the mining town of Levack where Gail Sobol (Fred Law), David (Gail) and Wayne (Gayle) were brought up. Harland again had a chance to hone his child rearing and household skills for ten years as a widower. His children greatly benefitted by his love, care and Christian values. In 1968, he chose Audrey Roberts (1913-2005) as his wife and welcomed Iris, Juanita (Paul Fazakas), Wayne (Fran) and Helen into the family. His expanded family, a new brick home in Dowling built, the garden and his active role in church life kept him busy until retirement. Once retired, he and Audrey moved back to their origins in Great Village, Nova Scotia. A home and a cottage at Five Houses were then built and both housed great gardens. Many good years of hosting and joining family and friends, gardening, bird watching, berry picking, fishing and travelling were spent. St. James Church was a pivotal part of his life. Grandchildren Kathleen (Trevor Popowich), Alison Sobol, Sylvie Rodrigue , Curtis (Gail), Craig (Mandy), Cara (David Jordan), Matthew and Adam, Robert and Thomas Desautels, as well as Susan and Joe Fazakas enjoyed fishing, clam digging, rock hounding, playing games and baseball with Grandpa. His famous hodgepodge was an all time favourite. Fourteen great grandchildren were happily added to the mix of the many family get togethers. Good food and good company were the rule. On June 12, 2010, Harland, friends and family celebrated his marriage to Audrey Rector. Her children, Elston (Sharon) and Colleen then too became part of his extended family. They began their lives together on an unforgettable honeymoon trip to Newfoundland in an RV which was amazingly equipped with both maid and chauffeur. In his generous and steadfast manner, Harland shared his love with all of his friends, caregivers and family members. He has gifted all of us with the tools to be successful in our own lives, and in that success, we honour and will continue to validate him! . . . He will be forever in our hearts. Visitation will be held Friday, February 17th from 7pm - 9pm in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street, Truro, NS. A funeral service will be held Saturday, February 18th at 10am, St. James United Church, Great Village, NS with Rev. David Lloyd-Pierce officiating. Interment in Mahon Cemetery in the Spring. In lieu of flowers donations to the St. James United Church, Great Village Memorial Fund or charity of choice would be appreciated. On-line condolences and donations may be made at: www.colchestercommunity.com