Eugene "Gene" L. Ackerman's Obituary
Mr. Eugene L. “Gene” Ackerman, age 78, died Monday, September 21, 2015. He was born on June 9, 1937 in Muskegon to David and Dorothy (Hasenbank) Ackerman, and resided in the area all of his life. Gene served his country in the U.S. Army. He was an automotive and small engine mechanic for over 60 years. Gene was a lifetime sponsor of Duck’s Unlimited and lifetime member of the Muskegon Heights Eagles. He loved hunting and fishing, camping with family and friends, and thoroughly enjoyed spending time on his farm up north. On August 21, 1999, he married Joy (Walker) Opalek-Ackerman, and she survives Gene along with his three children, Kevin (Deb) Ackerman, Craig (Lori) Ackerman and Gayle Fielding all of Muskegon; 5 step-children, Gail Houghteling of Norton Shores, Susan (Mike) Reagan of Fremont, Patsy (Steve) Lamb of Norton Shores, Carol Opalek of Norton Shores and Tammy Opalek of Florida; 14 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Allen (Peggy) Ackerman of Suttons Bay, and Marshall Ackerman of Muskegon; sister, Doris Runk of Grand Haven; and many nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by his first wife, Millicent in 1990; his parents, David and Dorothy; and brother-in-law, Ken Runk. The FUNERAL SERVICE will be 11AM Friday, September 25 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100. Visitation with the family will be 2-4 & 6-8 PM Thursday at The Lee Chapel, and 1 hour prior to the service from 10-11AM Friday. Burial will take place in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Wounded Warriors Project or Charity of Choice will be appreciated. Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com.
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