JOHNNY F. ACKERMAN
1924-2016
Johnny F. Ackerman joined his sweetheart of 67 years in heaven on February 15, 2016. Johnny was born in Houston on August 18, 1924 to Mitzi and Louis Ackerman. He is survived by his five children, Rose Mary Beddingfield, College Station, Tx., Cathy Johnson and husband, Dennis, Albuquerque, NM, Mary Clark and husband, Craig, Tony Ackerman and fiancé, Kelley Knake and Lisa Birdwell and husband, Gary, all of Houston. He is also survived by his brothers, Louis and wife, Yvonne, and Fred and wife, Archie. He leaves 13 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews who also adored him. Two years ago he lost his beloved wife, Shirley, and was also preceded in death by his sister, Mitzi Werckle Harris and his brother Marcel Ackerman.
He served in World War II in the South Pacific Theatre as a gunner on a B-29. He briefly worked for the Southern Pacific Railway before becoming a “Telephone Man.” He loved his career and his friends at Southwestern Bell. After retirement he continued to consult in the industry and finally quit working in his late 70’s. His tireless energy earned him the nickname “Energizer Bunny.” He and Shirley lived in Hunter’s Creek Village for more than 50 years before moving to the Buckingham retirement community. Even as his own health deteriorated and dementia robbed him of his memory he kept his sense of humor and was always trying to help others. He never met a stranger and never failed to entertain with his quick wit. He was telling jokes to his doctors and caregivers until the very end. Even though earth is a little sadder heaven is a much happier place now.
His family would like to thank Liz and Julie and all the staff at the Buckingham and Plaza who were so kind to him. Also we owe a special thanks to all of the caregivers at LaDonna’s Dream Care who showered him with affection as he adjusted to life without Shirley. His special angels included LaDonna, Mary, Teresa and Barbara.
He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather who always put his family first.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm in the stateroom at Earthman Funeral Directors, 8303 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 10:30 am at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 11720 Joan of Arc Drive, Houston, TX 77024. Interment to follow at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77024.