Cora J. Akershoek's Obituary
A Sassy, Smiling Legend Takes Her Final Bow at 91
Cora Akershoek, the queen of wit and warmth, danced her way to the stars at 91 on June 30, 2025. Born on August 3, 1933, to William and Dorothy Collins in Muskegon, MI, Cora was a firecracker from the start. On June 18, 1955, at the ripe age of 22, she locked hearts with her soulmate, Joseph Akershoek, whose killer sense of humor had her smitten. Together, they spun a 62-year tale of giggles, pranks, and pure love, adventuring through four countries and settling on five glorious acres in Twin Lake, MI.
Cora, a beloved bus driver for Reeth-Puffer Schools, retired after years of steering kids, baking treats and cracking jokes. Her final two years were spent charming everyone at Fremont Fountain View Assisted Living. With a smile that could light up a room, a sassy streak, and a rock-solid faith in God, Cora was fun to be around. Although known for her stubbornness, she poured her heart into her family and friends, leaving a trail of love and laughter that’ll echo forever.
Though her beloved Joe left for the big dance in the sky on January 29, 2017, and most of her family have already joined him, Cora’s spirit kept shining. She leaves behind her beloved nieces, Faith (Tim) Smock, Brenda (Mike) Gregg, Lisa Collins, Kim (CJ) Johnson; her nephew William Collins, and her BFF, Colleen Barnes, all of whom will miss her very much.
Join us to celebrate Cora’s adventurous life at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. She will be laid to rest next to Joe at Fruitport-Pinehill Cemetery. Memorial Contributions in Cora’s honor can be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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