William E. Akin, Sr. (Bill), son of the late Edward Akin and Mary Plass, passed away on November 9, 2024 with his partner of 20 years, Carole Ganson, by his side.

Bill worked most of his life as an auto mechanic, and even had his own working garage he built himself. He was a former race car driver at Lebanon Valley and enjoyed working on cars. Deer season was his favorite. He participated in rifle, bow and black powder season with varying success; he was passionate about it.

Bill is survived by, and will be deeply missed by his daughter, Bonnie Akin-Wheeler, grandson William Akin III (Jennifer Akin), granddaughter Ashley Akin, daughter-in-law Rita Akin (Jack McCagg), four great grandchildren, William Akin IV, Wesley and Jacob Akin, and Nicholas Butta Jr., siblings Helen Brand, Walter Akin, and Frederick Akin, 16 nieces and nephews, and his long-time partner, Carole Ganson, as well as her son and daughters, Chuck Ganson (Tara), Debbie Brosen (John), Donna Keeler (Patrick), grandchildren Cody, Calob and Connor Ganson, Dillon and Travis Keeler, Andy and Dan Reutzel, great grandchild Ethan Reutzel, and many, many friends.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, Edward Akin and Mary Plass, wife of 50 years Ann (Rossman), and son William E. Akin Jr., siblings Shirley Pulver, Joan Decker, and Edward Akin.

A memorial service only will be held on Wednesday, November 20th at 4 pm at the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home at 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham. Condolence may be conveyed at frenchgifford.com.