Donald Ray Ackerman,72, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, July 6th 2022. He passed away at home after a long battle with cancer. Don was born to the late James Robert Ackerman and Nella Mae Ackerman (Morrison) on August 7th, 1949 in Pekin, Illinois. Don was the oldest of three children. Right out of high school, he enlisted in the army and served from 1966 to 1970.

Don received medical training at Fort Sam Houston, TX, and attended Jump School at Fort Campbell, KY, prior to his departure to Vietnam. He served two and half years as Combat Medic there. Donald received many medals including a Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged, on August 2nd, 1970. Don was a proud Veteran and was proud to serve his country.

After serving his country, he joined the labor union, Local 231, and became a Construction and Road Laborer, until his retirement.  Don married and had 3 children with Myra Kay Boker and eventually divorced.

Don loved to spend his time with his children and coached their after-school sports. He also enjoyed camping, dancing, fishing, studying astrology and nature, and painting rocks. He loved to volunteer his time and was a Cub Scout Den leader and sign Language teacher! His favorite sign language signing was “I love you”. He was big on starting family traditions such as participating in Old English fairs, going to the Rocky Horror Picture Shows, putting on amazing Magic shows, and making balloon animals for the kids! Don’s hobbies included rock painting, gardening and so much more. Don loved being in nature.

He dedicated his whole life to helping others and changing their lives. As his children grew older they found a new love for being on the water, kayaking! In 2017, a new love came into Don’s life as he met and married his soulmate and fellow Kayak enthusiast Rhelda Jarvis Ackerman. Don would say they were “Peas and Carrots” and they became SnowBirds in Florida. They lit each other’s lives and made many memories.

Survived by Rhelda Ackerman, his wife. One brother Paul Ackerman and one sister Shirley Ackerman(Miller). Two children are Loren Wesley Ackerman and his daughter Melissa Brandy Lovins. Three granddaughters Emily J Ackerman, Cassandra D Lovins, Malayna J Ackerman; and faithful companion Maggie.

Preceded in death by parents Robert Ackerman and Nella Mae Ackerman(Morrison) and son Donnell Ray Ackerman