Mr. Bert Jesse Ackerman's Obituary
Mr. Bert Jesse Ackerman, age 77, passed away Tuesday afternoon, December 17, 2013 at his home, surrounded by his family. Bert was born November 24, 1936 in Chase, MI to Jesse and Thelma (Rolston) Ackerman. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy. On March 23, 1957, Bert married the former Norene Grace Butterfield in Yuma, AZ. He was a self-employed machinist; a spring maker for more than 40 years, retiring in 2011. Bert was a life member of the Muskegon County Sheriff Posse and a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church. He also loved to hunt and fish and spend time with his family. He is survived by Norene, his wife of 56 years; daughters, Theresa Vanderstelt, Julie (Rick) Robbins, daughter-in-law Donna (Bill) Gaven; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sister, Lavonne (Paul) Rehfus of Howard City, MI; brother Steve (Joyce) Ackerman; step-brothers and sisters, Ken Hart, Mary Vargas, and Sherry Hart; and many nieces and nephews. Bert was preceded in death by his son, Edwin J. Ackerman and his parents. A MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be 11AM Friday, December 20, 2013, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church (3235 Apple Ave.) with Rev. Fr. Antony Britto as celebrant and Full Military Rites afforded under the auspices of American Legion Post 9. VISITATION will be Thursday evening from 6-8 PM at The Lee Chapel, Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 6291 S. Harvey St. 231-798-1100 and one hour prior to the service (10-11AM) at the church. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS may be made to Mercy VNS Hospice or St. Thomas Knights of Columbus.
What’s your fondest memory of Bert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bert?
Share a story where Bert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bert you’ll never forget.
How did Bert make you smile?