AKINS; Wayne Leslie
It is with great sadness that the family of Wayne Leslie Akins, 73, announces his passing Monday, April 11 at the McKenney Creek Hospice in Maple Ridge following a stroke. Wayne will be lovingly remembered by his daughters Andrea (Jamie) Middleton and Heather (Talid) Jalbout, and grandchildren Jordyn, Charlotte, Carter, Théo and Elan. Wayne was predeceased by his wife, Frances, in 2014. Wayne was the youngest of Russell and Marjorie Akins' five children; Eileen Akins, Harvey Akins, Gaynor (Stoneman) Akins, and Gary Akins. He and Fran met while attending Abbotsford Senior Secondary School and were married in 1965 in St. Matthew's Anglican Church. Wayne was an army cadet and following graduation, he joined the Canadian Army Reserves and spent several summers in their Vernon camp. This led to a career in Canada Customs, which would span over 30 years. He spent the last several years of his employment serving as Chief of Operations at the Huntingdon border crossing. A lifelong resident of Abbotsford, Wayne was a lover of nature and wildlife and was happiest walking the many trails in the area with his wife. Wayne and Fran also enjoyed exploring the Gulf Islands. At his request, no service will be held. Memorial donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy of Canada or the Canadian Wildlife Federation.