Kyle Akers

TRAVERSE CITY — Kyle John Akers, age 7, of Traverse City, passed away early in the morning on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012, with his loving parents at his side. Kyle was born on June 2, 2004, in Vernal, Utah, to Phil and Jana (Knudsvig) Akers. Kyle grew up in Dinosaur and Grand Junction, Colo. The family moved to Traverse City in August 2011.Kyle was graciously brought into this world as a teacher to us all. He was wise beyond his years and knew the simple joys of life, laughter, kindness, patience, and his ability to love his family and his dog Buddy. Although he was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension at the age of 4, his heart was strong and pure in every way. Some of his life was spent dealing with medical issues, which he took in stride and charmed everyone along the way. He proudly served as Ambassador for the Children's Hospital of Colorado in 2011. Our sincere gratitude goes out to Dr. Dunbar Ivy and the staff at the Heart Institute for their loving care. He had an amazing smile, great sense of humor and an infectious giggle, which warmed our hearts. He loved swimming, reading, puzzles, camping in his VW camper van, watching videos, super heroes, wrestling with his dad, sleeping with his dog and spending time with his mom. Also, Kyle loved his extended relatives and looked forward to spending time together with them. Surviving Kyle are his parents; grandparents, Ardell and Sandy Knudsvig, Bob and Carolyn Akers; aunts and uncles, Fred (Marsha) Knudsvig, Rod (Suzy) Knudsvig, Sue Knudsvig and Andrea (Edward) McNicholas; and cousins, Ben, Kelli, Powell, Roddy, Sophia, John and Kate, all whom will dearly miss him. A celebration of Kyle's amazing life and spirit will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1050 Peninsula Drive, Traverse City, at 2:30 p.m., with a visitation starting at 2 p.m.Memorial contributions may be directed to the Heart Institute at the Children's Hospital of Colorado or Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, where Kyle proudly donated from his weekly allowance. Please sign Kyle's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.