Winona M Akins Obituary (1918

Winona Marie AKINS Winona Marie (Nollette) Akins, 94, passed away peacefully, January 1, 2013, in Seattle, Washington, with some of her family present. Winona was born on November 25, 1918, in Valentine, Nebraska, and graduated from high school in Hot Springs, South Dakota, in 1936. She graduated from St. Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing, Denver, Colorado, in 1940 and met and married the love of her life, Willard (Bill) T. Akins, in March of 1942 and moved to Seattle. Winona worked as a nurse at Swedish Hospital until they moved to Laurelhurst where they raised their three daughters. She worked in the emergency room at Children's Hospital. Winona and Bill became very active during the organization of Northwest Center, and Winona worked there for many years. They were also founders of Liberty World, a group home for special needs adults. Winona and Bill were avid square dancers and enjoyed making and wearing colorful matching outfits. After retirement, they wintered in Phoenix, Arizona, until Bill's passing in 1988. Winona moved to the Terraces at Skyline at First Hill two years ago and continued to be active with activities and socializing with friends. These are the things she said kept her going and active. We are thankful for the wonderful caregivers and friends who made her last years so enjoyable. Winona is survived by her daughters: Alice Akins, Arlene Creeden and Barbara Shafer. Six grandchildren: Kristina Kriebel (Greg), Melinda Charles (Robert), Shawn Creeden, Aubrey Creeden/Smith (Mike), Neil Shafer and Mark Shafer. Four great grandchildren: Zachary Kriebel, Benjamin Kriebel, Jackson Charles and Emily Charles. Winona had 94 fun-filled, spunky years as a nurse, mother, grandmother, dancer, advocate for those with disabilities, world traveler, and amazing woman. She was an inspiration to those who knew her. That so much awesomeness could be packaged in such a little lady dazzles us and makes us smile. For one who leaves a trail of glitter behind her will never be forgotten. Friends are invited to a Celebration of Life service at Skyline at First Hill, 725 9th Ave, Seattle, WA on January 11, 2013 at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Northwest Center, 7272 W Marginal Way S, Seattle, WA 98108 or the PRCN Foundation (Note: Skyline Employee Education Fund), 725 Ninth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104. Hoffner Fisher & Harvey Guestbook at harveyfuneral.com