Orville Elmer Ackerman

Orville Elmer Ackerman was born to Henrietta (Hayung) and Edward Ackerman on November 29, 1923 in Clara City, Minnesota. At a young age, he was bedridden with polio and taught himself how to play the harmonica. Orville was a hard worker and was employed at many different farms. When we worked in Clara City, he saw a beautiful young woman at the mailbox. He said to his boss, “I’m going to marry that woman someday.” And he did just that on June 5th, 1949. Phyllis Dieken was the love of his life and they shared over 75 wonderful years of marriage and recently renewed their vows.

Together, Phyllis and Orville welcomed four children, two boys and two girls. They raised them in the faith and taught them the love of Jesus. In 1964, the family moved to Alexandria where Orville worked for The Gambles Store. Iverson Shoes, First Lutheran Church, 3M – which is where he spent the last sixteen years of his employment.

While not at work, Orville loved to deer hunt with his sons, fish in both the summer and the winter, and play horseshoes. He was very talented and won many trophies and medals. Orville was also a master woodworker and made many beautiful things. Whenever he was in the garage working, the neighbors could always hear him whistling. It was his happy place.

Orville was the oldest fan of the Minnesota Timberwolves and love to watch their games. When he turned 100, the team sent him an autographed jersey of his favorite player -- #5 Anthony Edwards. He was so proud of it.

Orville passed away at Nelson Gables in Alexandria on June 26, 2024 surrounded by his family at the young age of 100. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Ackerman of Alexandria; sons: Gary Ackerman of Richfield, Lynn (Mary) Ackerman of Alexandria; daughters: Deb (Dan) Loken of Alexandria, Darla (Randy) Dau of Alexandria; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends.

Funeral services for Orville Ackerman, age 100 of Alexandria, will be held on Monday, July 1, 2024 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria at 11:00 AM. A public visitation will take place Sunday, June 30, 2024 at Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM as well as one hour prior to services on Monday. Burial will be at Kinkead cemetery.

Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria is in charge of arrangements for Orville.