AUBURN - As friends and family gathered Sunday afternoon to celebrate Lou Akins' life, there was one shared memory: Akins was a man who lived for others, dedicating his time and efforts to anyone who needed help.

Suzy's Tavern hosted the celebration, following funeral services at Cheche Funeral Home. The bar and restaurant were filled with loved ones who came not in sorrow, but in remembering the joy that Akins brought into everyone's lives.

“Lou always had a smile on his face,” said his sister Darlene O'Hara.“I don't know anyone who ever met him that didn't like him.”

Bert Vanberwerff, a friend of Akins' for 24 years, remembered his friend fondly, “He was a great friend,” he said. “He always looked on the bright side no matter what.”

Akins, who passed away last Tuesday, at 56, was remembered by all as a generous man.

“If anyone needed something, they could count on Lou,” Vanberwerff said. “He was a good man, willing to give you the shirt off his back.”

Ed VanBenschoten, known to Akins' family as “Grandpa Ed,” also remembered Akins this way.

“He was a hell of a guy, had a unique personality you don't see too often anymore,” VanBenschoten said.

Suzy's Tavern was not only filled with guests and music, but also donations from many area business, such as Mark's Pizzeria, Hair Wizards and Villano's Deli, were Akins had worked for 11 years.

Many of these donations were raffle prizes, with all proceeds going to help Akins' family with the medical costs associated with his battle with prostate cancer.

Tracy Akins and Amanda Cross offered their heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make the event happen.

“I know I'm not going to be able to list everyone, the entire community came together so much,” Tracy Akins said.

Those who came to remember Akins gathered in groups to share stories and watch a video slideshow put together by Cheche Funeral Home.

It showed pictures from throughout his life set to music he listened to.

Everyone remembered the good times they had with Akins and the positive impact he had on their lives.

Vanberwerff remembered the activities he and Akins shared, from fishing and hunting to cards.

“I remember I lost a lot of quarters to him,” Vanberwerff said with a chuckle, “He was a good man. He loved life and never worried about tomorrow as long as he enjoyed today.”