Richard Bruce Ackerberg's Obituary
Richard (Rick) Bruce Ackerberg was born on July 19, 1951 to Donald and Betty Ackerberg in Muskegon, Michigan. Rick lived a life that many only dream about. He began his life in a camper trailer with his mother as his father was off fighting in the Korean War. He regularly skipped school to go fishing or hunting. Even so, he earned an Associate’s Degree from Muskegon Community College and became Ranger Rick, a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) park ranger. He often rode along with the local Conservation Officers. In 1978, he became a Michigan State Police Trooper, but he soon left the State Police for his true passion and transferred to the DNR and became a Conservation Officer; his dream job. He thrived in that career and his work took him all around North America from Alaska to Florida and from New York to Washington. He worked as a uniformed officer in Atlanta, Michigan, was promoted to detective and also worked undercover. He received many awards, including Conservation Officer of the Year. He was characterized in books and told many amazing stories that we will all miss. Before and after retirement, he spent a life well lived, hunting waterfowl and big bucks, fishing and safeguarding our great outdoors. Rick was a loving husband and father with a wonderful sense of humor. He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren. He was always quick to congratulate them on their successes and support them through difficulties. At the too young age of 71, Rick passed on to his final reward on June 17, 2023 after a lengthy battle with prostate cancer. He was predeceased by his parents Donald Ackerberg and Betty (McMillan) of Muskegon and his brother-in-law Timothy Cornfield. Rick is survived by his loving wife Kathryn (Bezotte), his children Ryan (Jaklin) Ackerberg and Amy Ackerberg, six grandchildren, his brother Donald (Debi) Ackerberg and sisters Sheila Cornfield and Bonnie (Randy) Smith, and many nieces and nephews. He will forever be remembered by his family and friends. A Graveside Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, July 14, 2023 at Fruitland Township Cemetery. Arrangements handled by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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