Thomas Akron of Massapequa was known for his love of travel, his sense of humor and his devotion to family. "He never lost his sense of humor right up to the very end," said his wife Nancy.

Mr. Akron died on December 28, 2003 at the age of 71. He was a resident of Massapequa for 20 years.

His wife Nancy, whom he married 28-years ago, said he enjoyed traveling by car and visiting new places. "We traveled cross country on a four-week trip through 26 states in the car," Mrs. Akron said. "We went on six or seven cruises, to Mardi Gras one year and traveled to Florida and Nova Scotia among other places."

Mr. Akron served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was discharged with the rank of sergeant. He was also a member of the American Legion, and an active member of St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church in Massapequa.

Before retiring, Mr. Akron worked in insurance sales for Allstate insurance. "He loved his job," said his wife. "He was in insurance his whole life."

Mr. Akron also loved animals, especially his two dogs, Fraiser and Scruffy who were rescued from the League of American Protection.

"As soon as he was released from the hospital, he had to go see his boys (his dogs)," Mr. Akron’s wife said.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Akron is survived by his sons, Christopher of Bellmore and Carey and his wife Karen of Lake Monticello, Virginia; his daughters, Beth of East Meadow and Theresa Widlam and her husband Peter of Riverhead. His granddaughter Jennifer also survives him.

His family described him as devoted.

"He loved his family and it was his first priority," Mrs. Akron said. "He also loved golf and gardening. He was basically just very fun-loving."

Mr. Akron reposed at Massapequa Funeral Home and a funeral mass was celebrated December 29 at St. Rose of Lima. Interment followed at Holy Rood Cemetery in Westbury.