Lowell Edwin Akers

Lowell Edwin Akers, age 97, of Neillsville, WI, formerly of Sycamore, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center in Owen, Wisconsin. He was born on January 16, 1929, in Liberty Township, Adams County, Illinois, the son of Robert and Hazel (Blentlinger) Akers.

Lowell graduated from Liberty High School before continuing his education at Western Illinois University, and the University of Illinois, where he received his master's degree.

On September 7, 1948, Lowell entered the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country until September 5, 1952, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

On September 28, 1952, Lowell was united in marriage to Mary Eliene Caster. Together they shared many wonderful years of marriage until Mary's passing on July 17, 2016. Lowell always said that Mary was the love of his life, and he missed her greatly following her passing.

Lowell dedicated his professional career to agriculture and rural land management. He began his career as a Vocational Agriculture Teacher with Plymouth Community Consolidated Schools in Plymouth, Illinois, from 1956 until 1960. He then worked as a Professional Farm Manager and Rural Appraiser from 1960 until 2023. Throughout his distinguished career, Lowell worked with The National Bank and Trust Company of Sycamore, Illinois; Northern Trust Agricultural Services; Capital Agricultural Property Services; and concluded his career with Akers Group Appraisal Services.

Lowell was highly respected in his profession and was a member of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, where he earned both the Accredited Farm Manager (AFM) and Accredited Rural Appraiser (ARA) designations. He was also a member of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers and was recognized as a Hall of Fame member.

Faith was an important part of Lowell's life. He was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church of Sycamore, Sycamore, Illinois, from 1960 until his passing. Throughout the years, he served in many capacities, including President of the United Methodist Men, Lay Leader, and in other areas whenever needed.

Lowell was also a longtime member of the Sycamore Kiwanis Club.

Outside of work and service, Lowell found great joy in gardening, beginning his plants each winter in his basement and tending to his tomatoes, cucumbers, and green beans throughout the growing season. He took great pride in maintaining his rose beds and other flowers in his yard. Lowell also enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors.

He will be deeply missed by his children, Cindy Kester of Puyallup, Washington; Mark (Doreen) Akers of Neillsville, Wisconsin; and Greg (Lisa) Akers of DeKalb, Illinois; 19 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Dorothy Dewitt and Harlan Akers; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Lowell was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Akers; his parents, Robert and Hazel (Blentlinger) Akers; his great-granddaughter, Hazel Nordman; and his brother-in-law, Floyd Dewitt.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Illinois.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Lowell's family with arrangements.