Christopher "CC" Akunne

Christopher “CC” Akunne, Rph, a revered community figure and dedicated family patriarch, passed away peacefully at 65 at his home in Columbus, Ohio, on January 12, 2024.

Born on November 16, 1958, in Awo-Idemili, Imo State, Nigeria, Christopher graduated from Community Secondary School, Awo-Idemili, Imo, Nigeria. His journey from Nigeria to the United States marked the beginning of a remarkable life characterized by dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to his community. Christopher graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in pharmacy, which led him to relocate to Columbus, Ohio, to begin his career as a registered Pharmacist. Christopher was the proud owner and operator of Phillip's Pharmacy, a cornerstone of the King-Lincoln Bronzeville District and the first African-owned pharmacy in the state of Ohio for over 20 years. His passion for his work was paralleled by his commitment to the community, where he was a strong and influential figure for more than 30 years. As a King-Lincoln Bronzeville Neighborhood Association member, Christopher’s legacy includes his business achievements and his role as a mentor. Christopher served as a member of numerous cultural and professional organizations: People’s Club of Nigeria International, Nwannedinamba of Columbus, Ohio, Nigerian Association of Pharmacists & Pharmaceutical Scientists in America, Inc (NAPPSA), and OLGA, USA. Christopher had the ability to guide and inspire countless individuals with his wisdom and kindness to those in his local community, across the United States, and many family members and friends back home in Nigeria.

Christopher is preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Angelina, and his sister, Edith of Awo-Idemili,Imo, Nigeria.

He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Christopher is survived by his cherished children: Nicole Biederer (Kevin), Chinonye Akunne, Azubuike Akunne, Nneji Akunne, Chinedu Akunne, Dionna Austin, and his grandchildren Jocelyn Biederer, Cameron Biederer, and Madison Biederer. He is also remembered by numerous siblings, nephews, nieces, and friends whose lives he touched in profound and lasting ways. 

As we say goodbye to Christopher “CC” Akunne, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by enduring contributions to his family and community. His memory will forever be a beacon of love, strength, and guidance.

The family will be hosting a viewing and memorial service at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home - 403 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215 on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm and a celebration of life on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 5:00pm - 11:00 pm at the Double Tree Hotel 175 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, OH 43235 

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