A humble man who valued his family more than anything else
DANVERS — David William “Dave” Akerley, 66, formerly of Saugus, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2021 in Danvers at the Kaplan House with his daughter at his side. His battle with a serious medical issue in the past year showed his courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile and a “go get them” attitude. Despite the pain, Dave came out a hero and stayed strong until the very end.
As a young man, Dave attended and graduated from North Shore Community College and Salem State with a major in Liberal Arts and Business. He enjoyed fixing hot rods, participating in baseball and hockey games well into his mid 30’s, and playing the guitar in his high school band. Dave would continue to fix cars and play the guitar up until his last days as he enjoyed teaching his grandson the art of music and all about race cars.
One of his biggest accomplishments in life was being a father to the late David Michael Akerley, survived by Rachael Akerley Morabito and her husband, Alfred Morabito, of Revere and Lynn, and a Papa to David Joseph Morabito. He was a long-time employee of Aero Jet formerly known as Jet Engine Technologies of Danvers and Malden. He took tremendous pride in his ability to work many long hours to accurately complete tasks in a timely manner. No matter the day or time, Dave always found the time to stop and appreciate his family and everything he had.
After his diagnosis, he took immense pleasure in spending quality time with his grandson, son in law, and daughter. He could be seen early in the morning sharing breakfast with David J., shopping in the afternoon with Rachael and David J., and watching television late at night with Al. Dave was a simple and humble man who truly understood the meaning and value of family.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Cornelia Akerley and brother the late Richard Akerley. Dave also leaves behind a sister Donna Akerley Procopio and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral arrangements will be on Sunday, November 28 from 2 – 5 p.m. at the Gately Funeral Home in Melrose. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Due to restrictions surrounding COVID, the family will not be holding a gathering after the services at Gately. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com.
