Marian Ruth Akers

Marian Ruth (Orpin) Akers, died on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Newton, Kansas at the age of 91.

Marian was born on December 1, 1934, in Newton, Kansas to Charles and Alice (Farmer) Orpin. She attended Newton High School, graduating with the Class of 1952, where she met her high school sweetheart, Eldon Akers. The two wed June 24, 1953, and later welcomed three children; Deborah, Todd, and Michael.

Marian worked as a secretary at First National Bank Railroad Savings & Loan. She served as secretary to the Vice President of Beechcraft, as well as modeling for airline interiors. Marian retired from Skyline Corp in 1996. Her most prized title was being a homemaker and stay-at-home mother.

Marian enjoyed walks around Athletic & Centennial parks, watching her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sporting events. Marian and Eldon played 3 rounds of rummy together every morning with the loser having to wash the dishes. You could find them next to each other in their rocking chairs or relaxing on their porch swing. They’d get season tickets to KSU games & display wildcat flags on their Expedition on the way. They were always available for their family to visit.

Marian’s love language was food. She baked cookies almost every day for her 3 children with whatever ingredients she had in the house, so they always tasted different. She enjoyed surprising her grandkids with breakfast and even treated her kids’ friends with after-school snacks. Marian invited her loved ones over for goodies every Easter & Christmas. And, she thoughtfully gifted them with beautiful flower bouquets from her yard.

Marian had the kindest soul, she called everybody “sweetheart”. Even in her advanced dementia, she would let everyone know “You’re a blessing and a joy forever” and “You’re special”. Everyone who cared for her loved her kindness & gratitude. She gave the best hugs that we will forever miss.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Eldon Akers, and her two sons Michael and Todd Akers.

Marian is survived by her daughter, Deborah; daughter-in-law Patrice; grandchildren Lynn, Holly (Justin), Kelsey, Madison (Kai), Ashley (Noah), Josh (Nicole), Megan (Hunter) and Ian (Emma); and great-grandchildren Tanner, Tate and Lindy.

A graveside service will be held Thursday July 2, 2026 at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton, KS at 11:00 am.