Bryan Akins

Funeral service for Bryan Herbert “Herbie” Akins, 56, of Chisholm, formerly of Hoyt Lakes will be 10:30 am Friday, August 25, 2017 at Faith Lutheran Church in Hoyt Lakes with Pastor Eric Thiele officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in the Hoyt Lakes Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora. Bryan died Thursday, August 18, 2017 at the Fairview Mesabi Medical Center in Hibbing. He was born on May 31, 1961 to Herbert Jr. and Dorothy (Kangas) Akins in Ely. Bryan grew up in Hoyt Lakes and attended Aurora-Hoyt Lakes High School, graduating in 1979. Following high school, Bryan played semi-pro hockey for the Sioux City Musketeers. Later Bryan worked various construction jobs in both road and building construction. Bryan was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Hoyt Lakes He enjoyed being outdoors hunting and fishing. Bryan also loved his special dog, Shep III. Survivors include his daughter: Heidi (Nick Swenson) Akins of Grand Marais; two granddaughters: Jocelyn and Willow; his parents: Herbert Jr. and Dorothy Akins of Hoyt Lakes; three siblings: Jana Akins of Jacksonville, FL. John (Gina) Akins of Shoreview and Alan Akins of White Bear Lake; six nieces and nephews: Kameelah, Gena, Derek, Marie, Lucy, and Nora; former wife: Carol Carlson; as well as numerous cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Herbert Sr. and Angela Akins, John and Frieda Kangas; a step grandmother, Helmi Kangas; as well as foster grandparents, Levi and Hulda Saari.