Thomas Alexander Akin Jr.

Thomas "Pete" Akin, led a life marked by service, love, and an insatiable curiosity. Born on May 2, 1931 in Los Angeles, Pete was the son of Thomas and Jean Akin. He passed away on September 4, 2026. He had one sister, Joan Twitchell, who predeceased him. Pete's academic journey began at Hawthorne Grammar School in Southern California followed by his graduation from The Webb School in Claremont in 1949. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Southern California where he graduated in 1954. He married Joan Henderson in 1955. While at USC, he joined the ROTC and after graduating, served in the Air Force where he attained the rank of captain flying T33 and F100 jets. After three years in the Air Force, Pete and Joan moved to Dallas, Texas where Pete attended the University of Texas, Southwestern Medical School, graduating in 1963.

Moving back to California, he completed his Otolaryngology residency at UCLA, and Wadsworth VA Hospital in Westwood. During his residency he continued his service for 2 years with the Air National Guard.

After the completion of his residency, Pete and Joan, along with their three children, moved to Visalia, where he joined the Visalia Medical Clinic as a physician. For over three decades Pete practiced medicine at the Clinic specializing in Head and Neck surgery. His leadership was recognized as he became Chief of Staff at Kaweah Delta Hospital, where he also contributed significantly as a longstanding member of the tumor board, retiring from the board just 3 years ago.

Throughout his career, Pete was known as a dedicated and caring doctor, always striving to stay ahead of the latest medical advances. As a respected speaker at medical conventions, he shared his expertise with peers and mentored young professionals. He often spoke at the Flying Physicians Association on Spatial Disorientation.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Pete was a man of diverse interests and talents. One of his favorite places was Huntington Lake where he spent many winters skiing and summers teaching his grandchildren to sail. He was an avid aviator, achieving membership with the United Flying Octogenarians at the age of 80. Over the years he flew two private planes, a Piper Cherokee Six, and an RV-8. For more than three decades, the Piper Cherokee was a member of the family. Pete flew Joan, the children, and many friends across the country several times, turning ordinary weekends and summers into adventures, giving the family memories that no photograph could hold.

His artistry extended to woodworking and photography, while his athletic spirit shone on the tennis court. Pete and Joan were also runners for many years, likely increasing their longevity! In 1976, Pete and close friend, Don Whalen established the Visalia Racquet Club, in an effort to encourage interest and enthusiasm for tennis in Visalia.

Pete's contributions to his community were significant. As a longtime member of the Visalia Rotary Club, he exemplified the spirit of service above self. He traveled to Mexico, flying medical personnel to help those less fortunate. Pete and Joan also traveled to Russia working with church members to refurbish an orphanage. His life was enriched by the love and companionship of his wife, Joan Arlene. They celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary the day before he passed. Together, they built a loving family, raising three children, Thomas III, Colleen, and Andrew. Pete's legacy continues through his four grandchildren, Tyler (Sara), Hunter (Krista), Kaitlin (Dan), Alexander, and his great-granddaughter, Ramona.

A celebration of Pete's life will be held on October 14th at Christ Lutheran Church, 3830 W Tulare Ave., Visalia, at 2 p.m. In honoring his memory, the family kindly suggest donations be made to Ruth Wood Open Arms House or the American Cancer Society reflecting Pete's lifelong commitment to care and compassion.