Steven Michael Akkanen, age 69, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, died on February 15, 2024, at Freighter View Assisted Living in Sault Ste. Marie. He was born on July 6, 1954 in Sault Ste. Marie, to John and Barbara (Michaels-Ferguson) Akkanen.
Steve grew up in Raco and graduated from Brimley High School as Valedictorian, class of 1972. He attended LSSU in the computer engineering program. He was an avid runner and played several sports. Steve was a dedicated employee for the City of Sault Ste. Marie for over 40 years.
Early in his career, he was instrumental in transitioning the city into the use of computers and was the Y2K coordinator in the 1990s. In addition to his duties as a city building inspector. He also became the “go-to guy” for troubleshooting and fixing complicated traffic signal problems.
Steve maintained registrations with the state as a building inspector, building official, mechanical inspector, and plan reviewer. He was a member of the Northern Michigan Code Officials Association (NMCOA) and the Mechanical Inspectors Association of Michigan (MIAM). After retirement, he served on the city planning commission. Steve focused mostly on his work and his life at home.
Steve enjoyed working on the computer. He also enjoyed doting on his adored wife of 29 years, and his beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bella, Gracie, Rosey, and Goldie. He was a valued member of a group of guys who helped one another on building projects from roofing to other renovation projects. He will be missed by his closest friends, Darien Neveu and Robert Brown.
Steve is survived by his wife, Christine Akkanen; daughter, Erin; brother, John (Nan) Akkanen of Brimley, MI; sister, Karin (Ed) Pingatore of Brimley, MI, and several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and nephews.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, John and Barbara Akkanen.
At his request, no services will be held at this time.
Memorials may be given to Best of Friends Humane Society, 149 E. 7 Mile Road, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
As submitted by family
Family Life Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
