BLACKSBURG, Va. (WDBJ) – Two firetruck ladders stand tall, waving an American flag as friends and family honor the life of hometown hero David Akers.
“He’s gonna leave a lot of knowledge behind and we’re all going to extremely miss him,” said longtime firefighter friend Barry Simmons.
Akers was 61 years old when he died Saturday after battling some health issues.
He was a second generation firefighter, following in his father’s footsteps, and spent most of his childhood at the firehouse. He would end up serving 39 years on the Christiansburg Fire Department.
Friends and family of Akers say they will always cherish the many laughs they shared.
“Oh, he was funny. He was a gentle giant for sure, and he was very opinionated; yeah, he never met a stranger,” said Donnie Reed and Barry Simmons.
Akers also served as former president of the Southwest Virginia Firefighters Association.
On top of his fireman duties, David’s wife says he was an amazing husband and father.
His first responder brothers and sisters say while he leaves a hole in their hearts, he leaves a legacy at the fire station.
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