Donald Ray Akerman

Donald Akerman, age 78, of Purcell passed away peacefully on May 19, 2024. Donald Ray Akerman was born on February 17, 1946 in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, the 8th of 11 children born to Nick Akerman and Margaret Catherine (Lehman). Don was primarily raised on a family farm down on the river, where he lived most of his life. He attended Lexington Public Schools and graduated with the Bulldog Class of 1965. Shortly after graduating high school, Don made the decision to attend Okmulgee Tech School and graduated in 1967. Following graduation from Oklmulgee Tech School, Don was drafted into the United States Army. While home on break from basic camp, Don went on a blind date where he met the love of his life, Dorothy Marie Vaughn. The two instantly hit it off and the rest, as they say, is history. Donald and Dorothy were married on July 11, 1970 and together the couple shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Don was a proud patriot and because of his love for his freedom and country, he served in the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War, and was an honorable and faithful soldier throughout his time. Don was driven and dedicated to working hard every single day. For the majority of his working career, he was a maintenance man. He wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty and he enjoyed the challenge of fixing things! Don worked for AH-Metal & Mr. Pickup for numerous years and also at Griffin Memorial Hospital in Norman, where he eventually retired from. Don was a kind, funny, generous, and loving. He loved to joke and tell stories with his family and friends. He also enjoyed fishing and spending time at the river. More than anything, Don was a family man. He truly cherished spending time with Dorothy and his children; they were his whole world! Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and a true friend. He will be dearly missed! He was preceded in death by: his parents, Nick and Margaret Akerman; brothers, George Akerman and Jimmy Akerman; two infant brothers, Clement Lee and John William. Donald is survived by: his loving wife, Dorothy Akerman of the home; son, Len Akerman and wife Hettie of Oklahoma City; daughters, Melissa Taylor and husband Jim of Midwest City, and Sandy Akerman of Purcell; two grandchildren, Cynthia Taylor and Tiffany Taylor; two great-grandchildren, Haylee Taylor and Sofia Taylor; brothers, Ben Akerman of Purcell, Dale Akerman and wife Dee of Norman, and Billy Joe Akerman of Yukon; sisters, Rosamary Edgar of Pauls Valley, Lou Hooper of Lexington, and Jenny Lee Ross of Oklahoma City and a host of other family and friends. Funeral Services are scheduled for 10:00 A.M. Thursday, May 23, 2024 at Little's Chapel. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Purcell. www.wilsonlittle.com

Donald Ray Akerman

February 17, 1946 - May 19, 2024