RICHARD (RICHIE) AKMAN

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RICHARD (RICHIE) AKMAN

1953 - 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Akman on Sunday, January 21, 2024.



Richie was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the fourth child born to Beatrice (Betty) and Abram (Lefty) Akman. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Jackie, children, Jared Akman (Leanne) and Jamie Berman (Skyler). Grandchildren, Lowan, Shea, Julie, and Hannah. Siblings, Bob Akman (Pam), Danny Akman (Cydney), and Beth Bogner (Leon), mother-in-law Clarice Rubin, sister-in-law Barbara Hochman and brothers-in-law, Danny Hochman and Ron Rubin, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Richie was predeceased by his parents and father-in-law Jack Rubin.

Richie grew up in River Heights where he created and maintained many friendships over the years. He graduated from Civil Engineering at Red River College in 1976 with his best friend Ken Harasym before joining the family business. He ran the construction company for 40 plus years as the third generation of Akman Construction, which was founded by his grandfather, Aaron Akman in 1912. Throughout his career, Richie exhibited unparalleled dedication and professionalism. His contributions to the construction industry were significant, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and peers. He had many accomplishments while running the business and built some incredible facilities under his leadership - The Asper Jewish Community Campus, Red River College Roblin Centre, the Simkin Centre, Women’s Correctional Centre, Assiniboine Community College - Len Evans Centre, and CN Campus Winnipeg, to name a few.

Richie was community minded and served on many boards and committees to better the city in which he lived. He served as the Chair of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg as well as other Boards, including St. Paul’s High School.



Richie’s favourite place, his sanctuary, was at his home at Lake of the Woods where he enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, boating, and being surrounded by nature. He found joy and solace in these activities. The lake provided important opportunities to build traditions with his children and grandchildren. Family was at the center of his life. Richie was a man of unwavering integrity and embraced every moment with humility.

Richie’s family wants to offer a heartfelt thank you to his extraordinary medical team and nurses at the Health Sciences Centre, and in particular, Dr. Nick Hajidiacos and Dr. Ben Fultz.

A memorial service was held to celebrate Richard's life on January 24, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, a fund set up in his honour and an initiative that was close to Richie's heart.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 03, 2024, Feb 03, 2024