Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service Obituaries

Welcome to Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service

Welcome to a place of solace and commemoration, where the staff at Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service understand the significance of saying a fitting farewell to your loved ones. Situated in the heart of DeWitt, IA, our home at 212 10th Circle provides a peaceful setting that honors the memories of those who have passed on. Our commitment is to deliver services that respect the wishes of the departed and offer comfort to the bereaved.

A Personal Touch in Your Time of Need

At Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service, we believe in the personal touch. Grieving families find shelter within our walls, gaining strength from our compassionate team who are dedicated to making the memorial process as seamless as possible. From the first call to the final goodbye, our trained professionals are here to guide you through the options available, ensuring that every detail is tailored to your family's preferences and cultural traditions.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

David Brian Yost - January 30, 1964 - June 03, 2021

Departed: 06/03/2021 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: David Brian Yost, 57 of The Woodlands, Texas, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, June 3, 2021.

David, the third of four brothers, was born on January 30, 1964, in New Lebanon, Ohio. He was proud of his rural upbringing on Main Street where his close-knit family was very active both in their community and their church home, Church of the Brethren. Growing up, David was very involved in his church youth group and summer youth camps. He also enjoyed sports. He started both wrestling and baseball at a young age and continued competing throughout high school. David graduated from Dixie High School in 1982. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s degree in civil engineering from Purdue University. Following his graduation from Purdue, David accepted a job with Exxon in Houston, Texas, the company he stayed with for 32 years.  It was in Texas where he met Karen, his wife of 26 years. They married on June 10, 1995, and had many exciting adventures together. David and his family enjoyed traveling throughout the country, visiting their many family members, as well as discovering things to do in Texas. His work at ExxonMobil encompassed many areas, but he most enjoyed project work that took him on long-term assignments to Stavanger, Norway, for Ringhorne; and Brisbane, Australia, for the Papua New Guinea LNG Project. Most recently, he finished the Liza Phase 1 project in Guyana, and then moved to his final role as a Senior Principal Engineer supporting ExxonMobil’s global portfolio of projects and operations.  He was very devoted to his family. He and Karen have two beautiful children. Daughter Kaitlyn will be a sophomore at SMU next year, and son Jonathan will be a junior at The Woodlands High School. David was a strong supporter of both his children, enthusiastically involved in all their endeavors. Whether it was sports, music, Boy Scouts, or AFJROTC, David was always their biggest fan.  David had a quick wit, and could always bring a smile to someone’s face. He truly cared about the people around him, and had a natural ability to make them feel at ease. He was a bible study teacher for the Encouragers at The Woodlands First Baptist Church, and was always willing to help if there was a need. At family gatherings, he was the one on the floor, playing cars with the toddlers, or in the backyard, pushing them on swings and playing ball with the older kids. He would spend hours talking with his aunts, uncles, and cousins, and he always had his arms open to hold the babies.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, cousin, and uncle, as well as a valued friend. While he left us too soon, he leaves behind a strong legacy that lives on in the lives he touched. David is survived by his wife, Karen (Johnson) Yost; daughter, Kaitlyn and son, Jonathan of The Woodlands, TX; brothers, Tim (Nancy) Yost of Malabar, Florida, and Jim (Beth) Yost of West Chester, Ohio; brother-in-law, Ray Johnson of Phoenix, Arizona; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Jon) Stout of Millsboro, Delaware; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his father, Francis; his mother, Barbara (Weimer); and his older brother, Stephen Yost.  A memorial service celebrating David’s life will be held at The Woodlands First Baptist Church, June 25, 2021 at 10:00 am. All are welcome. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please make contributions to the Woodlands First Baptist Church or the David and Karen Yost Scholarship Endowment Fund (S200756) at the University of Cincinnati through https://giveto.uc.edu/give.

Karen's cousin, Raymond B. Ackerman, Jr., Funeral Director assisted Karen.

View Full Obituary

Joyce Ann Zonick - April 28, 1947 - June 03, 2021

Departed: 06/03/2021 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Joyce A. Zonick, 74, of Menasha, Wisconsin, touched the hand of her Lord and Savior Thursday afternoon, June 3, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.  She battled Multiple Sclerosis for 30 years.  It would be wrong to say that Joyce lost her battle because she never stopped fighting. No matter how she felt, she was always determined, her most reoccurring phrase was, “I WILL TRY”.  Through her, we know what resilience, courage, and perseverance truly look like. There was no quit in Joyce. Just because she is no longer here, it doesn’t mean Joyce lost her fight.

Born April 28, 1947 in Sheboygan Wisconsin, Joyce was the daughter of the late Jerry and Johanna Anhalt.  On May 3, 1969, she was united in marriage to Richard A. Zonick at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Joyce was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother to her family.  She enjoyed planting flowers, doing word searches, solving Jeopardy questions, and decorating the home for her family.

She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Richard; her son, Scott (Andi) Zonick, Kimberly; her daughter, Tina Bertz, (James); brother, James (Marilyn) Anhalt, Sun Prairie; two grandchildren, Brianna (Lucas) Gretzinger, Appleton; Brandon Zonick, Kimberly; brother in-law, Glenn Zonick, Azusa, CA; and many other relatives and friends.

Family and friends are welcome at Greenlawn Memorial Park Chapel, 6706 Superior Ave. Kohler, WI; for a 11:00 AM memorial service, followed by visitation from 12:00 until 2:00PM on Wednesday, June 9, 2021.

The family would like to thank the ICU nurses and staff at Theda Clark Medical Center Neenah, Karen from Christians Services, along with Theda Care at Home nurses.  All took great care and showed respect to Joyce each and every time they were around her.

View Full Obituary

Sarah Ackerman - February 03, 1934 - April 25, 2021

Departed: 04/25/2021 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Sarah O. Ackerman, age 87, of Coleman, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, April 25, 2021, at Bishop’s Court Assisted Living, Green Bay.

Sarah Olive Johnson was born February 3, 1934, in Elyria, Ohio, to the late Everett Leland and Olive Josephine (Dunfee) Johnson. She was a 1952 graduate of Norwalk High School (Ohio). A cosmetologist by profession, Sarah owned and operated her own beauty shop in Wakeman, Ohio, for several years. She married Raymond Burdell Ackerman April 12, 1959, at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lithopolis, Ohio, with Ray’s father, the late Rev. Edwin G. Ackerman, officiating.  Following their marriage, Sarah and Ray moved to Hessel, Michigan, where Sarah became a busy homemaker and mother and owned and operated Sarah’s Beauty Shop. She also assisted her husband and brother-in-law in running Ackerman Lumber Company and Les Cheneaux Ambulance Service. In 1969, Ray transferred to Krause Lumber Company and Sarah and Ray and family moved to Coleman.

She was an extremely sweet, generous, and caring person who loved to help others. Sarah was a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother who worked tirelessly and doted on each one of her children and grandchildren. She was a crafty person and enjoyed doing ceramics, decoupage, and Italian Cutwork embroidery.  Sarah made pinecone wreaths, as well as a variety of Christmas ornaments. She gifted her family and friends with many beautiful handmade items over the years. Sarah also loved to donate her many crafts to the St. Francis Catholic Church Bazaar in Coleman and would make a complete Nativity set each year for their  raffle. It was always the hot topic of what Christmas ornaments Sarah would contribute each year as she came up with many unique designs which sold quickly. She was quite musical and enjoyed singing hymns and playing the piano, primarily by ear. Sarah was an excellent cook and made many delicious meals for her large family with dinner on the table every night at 6:00 p.m. She passed on her recipes and know-how for her many varieties of Christmas cookies, especially her cut-out cookies, which were always in great demand, and for her great-grandmother’s Swedish Brown Bread and Banana Bread recipes, to name just a few.

For 14 years, Sarah lovingly and faithfully cared for her husband Ray at their home after he became a paraplegic in 1985. What joy we have in our hearts today to know that she is reunited in Heaven with him and her children, Mirium and Russel, as well as her parents and other family. She missed them all so very much.

Sarah was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Cedarville, Michigan, and the Granville (Ohio) Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She enjoyed attending First Baptist Church in Pound for many years and cherished the many friends that she made there.

Surviving are her children, Raymond B., Jr. (Sarah) Ackerman of DeWitt, Iowa, Margareta E. (Jens) Blegvad of Newark, Ohio, Stephanie L. (Leo) Macedo and Edwin G. Ackerman II, all of Green Bay; grandchildren, Emily E. Blegvad (fiancé, Heath Monroe) of Westerville, Ohio, Majriela L. Macedo of Green Bay, Raymond B. Ackerman III and Kyle P. Ackerman, both of DeWitt, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Phyllis E. DeLooff and Carol R. Ackerman, both of Pickerington, Ohio, and Marjorie K. Ackerman of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; a cousin, Linda Frey; and her dear friend of 52 years, Judy Lundgren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond B. Ackerman on June 17, 1999; children, Mirium Louise on March 31, 1963 and Russel Stephen on September 16, 1965; her brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Ray Leland and Penny Johnson; brothers-in-law, Dr. Leonard J. DeLooff, DO and William G. Ackerman; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, the Rev. Edwin G. and Edith R. Ackerman.

Friends may call from 5:00 until 6:45 p.m. Thursday, April 29, 2021, at First American Lutheran Church, 511 Madison Street, Oconto, Wisconsin.  A Sevice of Christian Burial will be at 7:00 p.m. Thursday in the Church with the Rev. Earl Vorpagel III officiating.  The family will also receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. Saturday, May 1, 2021, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 217 M-129, Cedarville, Michigan.  A Service of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday in the Church with Rev. George Kaiser officiating. Burial will take place in Edgewood Cedar Cemetery, Cedarville, where Sarah will be laid to rest next to her husband.

Pallbearers will be Ed Ackerman, Raymond Ackerman III, Kyle Ackerman, Jens Blegvad, Leo Macedo and Heath Monroe.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the staff and nurses at Bishop’s Court, especially to her nurse Tom Gellin, who Sarah really loved, and her nurse Lucinda Smallwood, who was with Sarah during her last moments.  Also to Jim Martell and Betsy Lesandrini at Hansen-Onion-Martell Funeral Home, Marinette for their care and support.

View Full Obituary

E. James "Jim" Mertaugh - October 13, 1931 - February 02, 2021

Departed: 02/02/2021 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: E. James "Jim" Mertaugh, 89, of Hessel, Michigan, earned his Eternal Reward early Tuesday evening, February 2, 2021, at Pennington Home, Pickford.

Eugene James Mertaugh  was the youngest child born October 13, 1931, in Sault Ste. Marie to parents the late Eugene Joseph and Helen Catherine (Bailey) Mertaugh.  He was a graduate of Les Cheneaux Community Schools and served his country in the United States Coast Guard.  On November 26, 1955, Jim was united in marriage to Ella May "Elly" Nelson at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sault Ste. Marie and their marriage was blessed with four children.  They resided in Hessel where they they raised their family.  Jim worked with his father, Gene, brother, Jack, and sons, Danny and Tommy in the wooden boat restoration business, E. J. Mertaugh Boat Works in Hessel.  This business grew significantly from the time it became the country’s first ever Chris-Craft dealer at the advent of recreational power boating in America.  Jim and Jack assumed the reigns of E.J. Mertaugh Boat Works from Gene in 1970.  They continued to grow and diversify the business from one that looked after what were once considered the area’s “old wooden boats,” into one that preserved and restored those boats.  Jim was an expert preserver and restorer not only to family's who owned these boats in the Les Chenueax Islands but to those all over the world.  Jim retired from E. J. Boat Works and after a brief period of time, launched Classic and Antique Boats, LLC of Hessel in 2003 with his sons, Tommy and Danny beside him.  Though they began by continuing to preserve the area’s increasingly important classic boats, they evolved into one of the country’s most respected wooden boat restoration shops, with some boats winning national, best-of awards. Beyond restoring many boats into far-better-than-new condition, the expertise and caring of Jim and his sons kept classic boating — boats 30, 40, and up to 100 years old — safe for dozens of families in the area.

Love for, talent and great expertise in classic boats were in Jim’s, Danny's, and Tommy's blood. They became essential not just to preserving the area’s boats, but to preserving the connection between those boats and generations of family who enjoyed them. Those families trusted Jim and his sons, in a business where trustworthiness makes or breaks the connection between a boat owner and his/her boat. For some of those families, that lineage of trustworthiness began when Gene sold them their first boat in the 1930’s. For others, it began at some point during the 80+ years of the Mertaugh family continuity in the boating business.  Jim and his sons leave behind a wonderful legacy in the area. One that will be sorely missed by so many, yet one that will live on and be renewed each spring when the boats once again roar to life.

Surviving are his daughters and sons-in-law, Amy and Robert Paczkowski of Cedarville and Erin and Jason Brooks of Canton, Michigan; his granddaughter, Megan (Trevor) Bouwens of Grand Ledge, Michigan; his three great-grandchildren, Addison, Bexley and Cylus; his daughter-in-law, Judy Mertaugh and her daughters, Shelby and Jaycee; nieces, Missy DeWick and Margo (Hunter Kovalski) Mertaugh and his nephews, Tim (Bonnie Mickelson) DeWick and Brian (Elisabeth) DeWick: a special friend, Marcie Waggoner.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Elly in 1996; his sons, Thomas "Tommy" Mertaugh in 2013 and Daniel "Danny" Mertaugh in late 2020; his son-in-law, Mark Izzard, siblings Frances (Lee)  DeWick, John "Jack" Mertaugh and Robert Mertaugh, and nieces, Maeve Fitzgerald and Kerri Mertaugh.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church, Hessel from 2:00 until 2:45 p.m. Friday, February 5, 2021, with pandemic guidelines followed. A Funeral Mass will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday in the church and may be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/4.as.1.FaithCommunity/live   The Rev. Fr. Ben Paris will officiate..  A graveside service and military rites will be held in the Spring at Cedar Cemetery and will be announced.  In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of the EUP, 308 West 12th Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 and/or Clark Twp. Ambulance Auxiliary, PO Box 453, Hessel, MI 49745.

Pallbearers will be Jason Brooks, Bob Paczkowski, Trevor Bouwens, Dave Carie, Paul Tassier and Tom Sayles.

The family expresses their sincere appreciation to Pennington Home and Hospice of the EUP for the loving care of Jim in his final days.

Condolences may be expressed and a photo tribute viewed at www.ackermancares.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Raymond B. Ackerman, Jr., Funeral Director (877) 278-1134 with the assistance of C. S. Mulder Funeral Home, Sault Ste. Marie.

View Full Obituary

William Henry Draeger, Jr. - March 06, 1924 - July 15, 2020

Departed: 07/15/2020 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Mr. William Henry "Bill" Draeger, Jr., 96, of Oconto, Wisconsin, died peacefully Wednesday evening, July 15, 2020, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born March 6, 1924, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to the late William H., Sr., and Laura (Larsen) Draeger.  Bill attended the former Elm Grove School and in the winter months would often ice skate prior to school in the morning to get the wood stove going.  He helped his parents on the family farm as a child.  Bill was a 1942 graduate of Oconto Senior High School where he was an active athlete, playing football.  He served in the United States Army during World War II, stationed in Europe.  Bill was active in the invasion of Normandy (Utah Beach) Battle of the Bulge.  He received the highest score in his battalion for long range marksmanship.  During the Korean Conflict, he served in the United States Air Force stateside.   At the Eagles Ballroom in Milwaukee, Bill met the love of his life, Donna Jennings whom he often joked as his “first wife” as a joke.  They were married October 6, 1956, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Oconto.  He worked in the Milwaukee area at Howard Foundry, American Motors, Kerbel Garage and retired from Schlitz Brewery.

A man of faith, Bill was a member of Lutheran churches in Milwaukee and Oconto, ensuring his family was early in the pews every Sunday.  He was a 60-year member mainly of the Germantown and Lena American Legion posts serving as Commander many times.  To say Bill was a proud veteran would be an understatement.  His service to his country continued following service, driving veterans to Veterans Administration medical facilities in Tomah, the Fox Valley and Iron Mountain, Michigan.  Bill was a Deputy Zoning Administrator for the Township of Oconto, often helping his neighbors in the Township submit building permits and served as Supervisor for the Town of Oconto.  He proudly encouraged his nephew, Steve Carlin to fill his Supervisor vacancy.  “BK”, before kids Bill enjoyed convertible sports cars and motorcycles.  He was the proud owner of the First Indian Chief in Wisconsin following World War II.  Bill dreamed of flying as a child, attaining a private pilot’s license during, and following his military service.  He took up photography while serving in the Air Force and continued that in civilian life.  “Wild Bill” as he was known, spent retirement traveling North American trapshooting.   An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and hunting, especially for waterfowl in the Horicon Marsh.  Over the years, Bill played softball in various legion leagues and participated in league bowling with his wife and friends.  The “sign man” as Bill was known, enjoyed various woodworking projects.  He was a huge Wisconsin sports fan of the Brewers, Packers and Badgers and even bigger fan of his grandchildren’s sporting events.

Surviving are his wife, Donna; children, Karen Pappas of Milwaukee, Ruth (Todd) Bishop of Crivitz, Anita (Brian Loyd) Draeger and William, III (Karri Spice) Draeger of Oconto; grandchildren, Jessica Draeger, and Jason (Melanie Crain) Grosso of Milwaukee, Robby Bishop and Becky (Sam) Moore of Crivitz, Matthew (Renetta) Detaege of Little Suamico, Melissa (Scott) Garrigan of Lena and Abby Spice of Oconto; great-grandchildren, Owen, Sasha, Noah, Jaxson, Cadence, Garrett, Wyett, Delaney, Dylan, Kayla, Karli and William; sisters, Elsie Caldie, Green Bay and Charlotte Ihde, Oconto; nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a son-in-law, Dan Pappas; sisters, Mary Carlin and Pat Virch and brothers-in-law, Bob Carlin, Niron Virch, Jim Caldie and John Ihde.

A small Graveside Service for family and close friends will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 23, 2020, at Evergreen Cemetery, Oconto.  Military rites will be conducted by Lena American Legion Post #342 and the United States Air Force.  Interment will follow.  In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Lena American Legion, Wounded Warrior Project PO Box 758516 Topeka, Kansas, 66655-8516 or Unity Hospice 2366 Oak Ridge Circle DePere, Wisconsin 54115.

The family extends their appreciation to Unity Hospice for their compassionate care.

Arrangements are in the care of Raymond B. Ackerman, Jr., Funeral Director (877) 310-5558.

Jesus, Savior, pilot me, Over life’s tempestuous sea; Unknown waves before me roll, Hiding rock and treach’rous shoal; Chart and compass came from Thee: Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

As a mother stills her child, Thou canst hush the ocean wild; Boist’rous waves obey Thy will When Thou say’st to them, “Be still!” Wondrous Sov’reign of the sea, Jesus, Savior, pilot me. When at last I near the shore, And the fearful breakers roar ’Twixt me and the peaceful rest, Then, while leaning on Thy breast, May I hear Thee say to me, “Fear not, I will pilot thee.”

View Full Obituary

Daniel Frederick "DP" Passig - September 19, 1939 - June 24, 2020

Departed: 06/24/2020 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Daniel F. "DP" Passig, 80, of DePere, Wisconsin, formerly of DeWitt, Iowa, died Wednesday morning, June 24, 2020, at Caraton Commons in DePere.

Daniel Frederick Passig was born September 19, 1939, in Charlotte to the late Rinehardt  John and Alta Marie Olga (Ketelsen) Passig.  He was a 1958 graduate of Welton Consolidate School. Dan married Ruth Ann Grimm September 19, 1958, at Grace Lutheran Church, DeWitt.  The couple farmed and raised their family at rural Welton.  DP also owned and operated Passig Trucking with his son, Roger for 25 years.  In later, he drove for various other companies.   His wife Ruth preceded him in death September 3, 2012.

He was a member of the Welton Volunteer Fire Department.   Dan was a people person and enjoyed visiting with them.  He also enjoyed his horses, hunting and snowmobiling.  Above all Dan loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving are his son and daughter-in-law, Roger  and Jody Passig of DeWitt; his daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Gary Reuter of Denmark, Wisconsin; grandchildren; Isaiah (Heidi) Reuter, Justin Reuter, Chelsey (Jim) Hertel and Cody (Meghan) Berger; great-grandchildren, Zaiden, Adalyn and Hazel Reuter, Hailey and Mia Hertel and Brynlee, Madilynn, Finnigan and Oliver Berger; siblings, Sylvia Bowman, Fred (Vickie) Passig and Sally (Gary) Knutsen; sisters-in-law, Jean Passig, Terri Shelton and Rita West; nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by brothers, Duane Passig and Rodney Passig; brothers-in-law, Robert Bowman, Virgil Meyer and Earnest West and a sister-in-law, Rose Ada Meyer.

A private family visitation and funeral will be held Friday, July 3, 2020, at Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt with Pastor Brandon Pangman officiating.  Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery, DeWitt.  Please join the family at 11:00 a.m. Friday via Facebook Live at http://www.facebook.com/schultzfuneralhomes/live for Dan's funeral and graveside services.  Family and friends are invited to Roger and Jody's farm for a Celebration of Life Luncheon following the graveside service.   In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a donation to your local volunteer fire department in Dan's name would be appreciated.

Pallbearers will be Isaiah Reuter, Justin Reuter, Cody Berger, Jim Hertel, Brad Bowman and Todd Passig.

View Full Obituary

Penny Johnson Carroll - April 11, 1941 - May 31, 2020

Departed: 05/31/2020 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Penelope “Penny” (Rees) Johnson Carroll, 79, of The Villages, Florida, passed away at The Villages Hospital Sunday, May 31, 2020.

Born April 11, 1941, in Norwalk, Ohio, Penny was the daughter of Leon and Edna (Peckham) Rees. Upon graduation from Norwalk High School, she attended Kent State University and received a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing from Ohio University. She later earned a Masters of Science in Education from Western Michigan University. Penny devoted over 35 years to teaching children with special needs, mostly within the Hillsdale County Intermediate School District in Hillsdale, Michigan.  Penny married her college sweetheart, Ray Johnson  September 1, 1962. Together they raised a family and celebrated over 50 years of marriage. Ray preceded her in death January, 23, 2013. Love found Penny again, and she married Alan Carroll August 6, 2016. Their affection for one another and enjoyment of each other's company was deeply admirable.  Karen (David) Yost, Cher (Jonathan) Stout, and Ray Johnson were blessed to have a loving mother, who took a keen interest in all of their endeavors. Penny was especially delighted by her five grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Jonathan Yost and Wade, Whitman, and Wyatt Stout. Step-children Mickey Roderick, Terry Schauber, and David Carroll, as well as their children and grandchildren, became happy additions to her family.

Penny was a longtime member of the Hillsdale First Presbyterian Church and a founding member of the Hillsdale Women’s Investment Club, holding leadership positions in each. After retiring to sunny The Villages, she became an avid golfer, a member of the garden club, and joined New Covenant United Methodist Church, where she volunteered with the Stephen Ministry, funeral reception services, and the outreach ministry at the Wildwood Food Pantry. Penny had a passion for genealogy and became the family archivist. She enjoyed a lifetime of antiquing, gardening and baking and was known for her antique clock collection, rose gardens, and homemade confections.  Penny was also adventurous at heart, seizing opportunities to visit most of the United States, Great Britain, Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, New Zealand, and Australia. In 2014, she experienced the trip of a lifetime, travelling to The Holy Land. She especially enjoyed visiting with and hosting friends and family from around the country. She is survived by her husband Alan Carroll; children, grandchildren, step-children and step-grandchildren; her sister, Lenore Kotys, sister-in-law, Sarah Ackerman and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service for Penny will take place at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 16, 2020 at New Covenant United Methodist Church, The Villages with entombment in the church columbarium. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Wildwood Food Panty c/o New Covenant United Methodist Church 3470 Woodridge Drive The Villages, Florida  32162

View Full Obituary

Nick "The Bear" Kinziger - December 16, 1943 - March 20, 2020

Departed: 03/20/2020 (DeWitt)

Obituary Preview: Nick “The Bear” Kinziger, 76, was unexpectedly called to his heavenly home in the early morning hours of March 20, 2020 with his wife Peg by his side.   Battling a few health issues over the past few years, Nick was working really hard to turn his health around.

Born on December 16, 1943, he was the first born of eight children to Alfred and Marion (Maloney) Kinziger.  In his early years, Nick attended and graduated from Coleman  High School.  He helped with the family business at Kinziger Meat Lockers in Pound while pursuing quite an illustrious high school football and wrestling career.  As a Junior he qualified to compete at State in the 180 pound division.  It was in those days that he earned his nickname given to him by his famed wrestling coach Jim Douglas.  He thought it appropriate that nick be ‘knighted’ with a title of several names, thus Nicholas George Murray Butler Kinziger Esquire Jr. The Bear was born.

When a Crivitz area dairy farmer Norbert Doyle discovered a black bear was crashing through his corn field at night, devouring  nearly mature corn cobs, he asked Nick and his brothers to rid him of the nocturnal pest.  One evening, on a moonless night, Nick set up in the field while his brothers created a noisy diversion, driving the bear toward Nick.  In total darkness, Nick heard the beast approach and when it loomed in front of him, barely visible in the dark, Nick fired, killing the bear.  Coleman High School wrestling coach Jim Douglas learned of Nick’s adventure and nicknamed him Nick “The Bear”.  The media picked up on Kinziger's exploit and nickname and ran with it when reporting Coleman weekly wrestling results.

Nick went on to teachers college earning his Bachelors of Science and Masters degree from UW-Oshkosh.  On December 28, 1963, he married Dorothy Mae O’Brien of Amberg.  They had one daughter, Nikkie Lee.   Nick and Dodie lived just north of Lena during their married years where they had Nik-A-Doo Farm.  They were quite active in raising show and race horses along with a few show dogs.  Bear spent his first two years teaching in the Goodman School District and then took a job teaching Science/Chemistry at Oconto Falls Washington Middle School where he spent the next 33 years.  There,  Nick resurrected the wrestling program that Oconto Falls now has today where he coached them to many titles and state champions.  Nick retired in 1999 and a year ago he was inducted into the Panther Area Wrestling Hall of Fame.  It is an honor he still couldn’t believe was bestowed upon him.

After his retirement, Bear had ample opportunity to take advantage of the many things he enjoyed to doing.  A passion for the outdoors, he was an avid fisherman, hunter and snowmobiler, and in his earlier days Nick enjoyed golfing and riding his motorcycle.  Currently his love was watching his ‘Judge’ shows,  telling Alexa to play something, morning breakfasts with the boys club at the restaurant and most of all spending time with his buddies, brothers, and nephews at the cabin.  Any day on the water/ice was a good day to him.   He loved going to his daughters home to play with her puppies.  One wouldn’t know it, but Nick was a great cook and he had an amazing singing voice.  Bear was an avid Packer and Brewers fan, but wrestling never left his blood.  He was very happy to see his great nephew John win third place in his state title bout  just a couple of weeks ago.

On November 2, 2002 Nick married the love of his life, Margaret (Peg) Winters from Phelps where she owned Sand Lake Pub and Wintersland Storage.  Upon marrying Nick, they lived in Crivitz on Left Foot Lake with his loving dogs Lacey and Gidget (and Moose, Liza Dootlittle and Budman who have previously passed).  There he was able to just walk across the lake to fish.  He took great enjoyment out of watching the deer and birds come into his yard where he could watch them closely from his man cave.  In that man cave, Nick ran several side business in his spare time.  He wasn’t happy if he wasn’t talking to someone on the phone.  His beautiful smile would brighten any room. For as much as Nick was a conversationalist, he was ‘journalist’.  He has kept a daily diary for over 41 years.  There’s not a date, time or incident that he didn’t write down if it was important to him.  So dedicated to this lifelong passion, he even journaled when he was on his fishing and hunting trips.

Surviving are his loving wife Peg Winters-Kinziger, his daughter Nikkie, brothers Pat (Joanne), Fred, (Shirley) Shirley Kinziger (Colin), Ann Cornelius (Paul), Kathy Gilbertson (Jim), Kristy Baenen (Wayne), Michelle Schounard (Mike), his godsons Nick Gilbertson and Seth Shounard, and his many nieces/nephews, other relatives, and his dear friends past and present Darryl Vandriesse, Fred Carlson, Dan Rhodes, Jim (Pug) Douglas, Mike Krause, Gerry Krause, Russell Martens, Bob Koenig, Jack Magnin, Mike Kaczmarek, Dan Stodola, Dan Bieber,  Craig Gilbertson, Nick Skolsky, Jerry Polzin, Jerry Martens, Chuck Kesul, Frank Maleski, Jim White and the many, many others.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Alfred and Marion Kinziger, his youngest brother Colin, brother in law Paul, and nephew Christopher.

The family will receive relatives and friends at St. Ann Catholic Church, Coleman from 9:00 until 11:45 a.m. Saturday, September 12, 2020.  A Memorial Mass will be held at 12 noon Saturday in the church with the Rev. Fr. Luke Ferris officiating.  The Mass will be live streamed at https://www.facebook.com/AckermanFuneralDirectors/live.  The Bear was a man of leisure, so please feel free to wear casual attire.  Any funds will be given to the PAWS (Panther Area Wrestlers) a club that was close to Nick’s heart.  Please visit “In Memory of Nick the Bear Memorial” page on Facebook to make comments, leave stories, or upload photos.

Condolences may be expressed and photo tributes viewed at www.ackermancares.com. Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service of Grand Mound, Iowa, is assisting the family.  Raymond B. Ackerman, Jr. Funeral Director (800) 278-1134

View Full Obituary

Celebrating Lives with Dignified Services

Our extensive range of services reflects our commitment to meet the needs of our community. Ackerman Funeral Directors offers traditional funerals, contemporary memorial services, and direct cremations. We support environmentally conscious choices with green burial options and are adept at incorporating personal elements to celebrate the unique life of your loved one. Our facility is equipped to accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger services, ensuring we can honor every individual's life story.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our facilities at Ackerman have been carefully designed with your comfort in mind. Families can find solace within our tastefully decorated viewing and ceremony rooms, which provide a serene backdrop for reflection and remembrance. The latest audio-visual equipment is available to personalize services with music and multimedia tributes. Our on-site crematorium offers peace of mind, knowing that your loved one never leaves our care.

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

Ackerman Funeral Directors encourages individuals and families to consider planning in advance. Pre-arranging a funeral or cremation service alleviates the burden from your loved ones during their time of grief. Our staff is skilled in discussing these sensitive plans, offering transparent advice on the financial and logistical advantages of planning ahead. We assure you that any arrangements made will be honored and respected, providing clear instructions on the execution of final wishes.

Supportive Resources and Aftercare

The journey through grief doesn't end after the funeral service. Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service extends aftercare resources to aid in your healing. Our connections with bereavement specialists and support groups offer a community that can empathize and guide through the complicated maze of emotions. We also provide online memorials where families can continue to share stories and keep their loved one's memory alive.

Guiding You Through the Legalities

Our knowledgeable team is well-versed in the legalities surrounding the passing of a loved one. We are here to guide you in obtaining death certificates, advising on estate matters, and ensuring that all documentation complies with state regulations. At Ackerman, we shoulder the bureaucratic burdens so that you may focus on grieving and honoring the departed.

Connect With Us Anytime

Acknowledging that loss can occur at any moment, Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service are here to answer your call 24 hours a day. Our outreach extends beyond office hours, ensuring that you are never alone in urgent times. Whether you have immediate needs, require assistance with pre-planning, or have questions about our services, our doors and our hearts are always open to support you and your family.

Choosing Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service

Selecting Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service means opting for professional care coupled with genuine compassion. With unity, dignity, and respect as our guiding principles, we stand as a pillar of support for the DeWitt community and the surrounding areas. We invite you to visit us at 212 10th Circle, DeWitt, IA, 52742, to experience firsthand how we can serve you in honoring a life well-lived. In the sorrow of loss, find a partner in Ackerman who will guide you with sensitivity and kindness every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death, typically published in newspapers or online platforms. It includes a brief biography of the deceased, information about their family, and details regarding funeral or memorial services. An obituary serves as a notice to the community and also as a tribute to the person's life.

Why is writing an obituary important?

Writing an obituary is important for several reasons. It formally acknowledges the loss of a loved one and provides a record of their existence for future generations. It also informs friends, colleagues, and the extended community of the person's passing, inviting them to participate in the mourning process and any associated services.

Who typically writes an obituary?

Obituaries are usually written by immediate family members, such as a spouse, sibling, child, or parent. However, in some cases, a close friend or a professional writer hired by the family can also compose the obituary.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, their age, date of birth and death, brief biographical details, family members, information about the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a special message or a thank you note to those who helped during their final days.

How do I start writing an obituary?

To start writing an obituary, gather essential information about the deceased, such as their full name, birth and death dates, and details about their life, career, and family. Begin by announcing the death respectfully and proceed with a chronological account of their life, ending with funeral service details and an expression of gratitude.

Where is an obituary published?

Obituaries are commonly published in local or national newspapers, both in print and online editions. They can also be posted on the websites of funeral homes, social media, community bulletins, and in various other digital formats.

Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?

Yes, there's a difference. A death notice is a shorter, more formal announcement that typically contains only basic details about the deceased and the forthcoming services. An obituary is longer, allowing for a more personal and detailed account of the deceased's life and legacy.

How long after a death is an obituary published?

An obituary is generally published within a few days to a week after death. This allows time for the family to gather necessary information and make service arrangements, while also notifying the community in a timely manner.

Can I include a picture with an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include a photograph with an obituary. A recent portrait or a picture that reflects a happier time in the deceased's life can add a personal touch and help readers connect with the announcement.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

It's important to handle sensitive information with care and respect. Focus on celebrating the deceased's life and achievements without disclosing private or controversial details. If in doubt, consult with other family members for guidance.

What is a eulogy and how is it different from an obituary?

A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service in praise of the deceased, often sharing fond memories and personal stories. While an obituary serves as a public announcement of death and a record of the person's life, a eulogy is more personal and is delivered orally to those present at the service.

Should I mention the cause of death in an obituary?

Mentioning the cause of death in an obituary is a personal choice. Some families choose to include this information, especially if the deceased was a public figure or if the death was high-profile. However, it's entirely acceptable to omit this detail if desired.

Is it necessary to have an obituary proofread?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have the obituary proofread by family members or a professional before publishing. This helps ensure accuracy and prevents any errors or omissions that might cause distress or confusion.

What is the appropriate length for an obituary?

The appropriate length for an obituary can vary. Some are brief and to the point, while others provide a more comprehensive account of the deceased's life. The length may also be influenced by publication space limitations or the family's preferences.

How can I personalize an obituary?

To personalize an obituary, include anecdotes, personal traits, accomplishments, and passions of the deceased. You can mention their hobbies, philanthropic activities, or any other elements that uniquely represent them. Quotations or poems that were significant to the deceased can add a special touch.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for individuals to write their own obituaries. It ensures that your life story is told as you wish and helps relieve your family of this task during their time of grief.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost to publish an obituary can vary widely depending on the length of the obituary and the publication in which it's placed. Some newspapers charge by the word, inch, or column, while others offer a flat rate for a certain amount of space. Online publications might offer free or lower-cost options.

Should I mention charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include a request for charitable donations in lieu of flowers. You can mention the name of a charity or cause that was close to the deceased's heart along with instructions on how to donate.

What should I do if I find an error in an obituary after publication?

If you find an error in an obituary after it has been published, contact the publication as soon as possible to request a correction. Many newspapers and online sites will correct factual errors free of charge.

Is it possible to exclude certain family members from an obituary?

While it is possible to exclude certain family members from an obituary, it's important to consider the potential impact this may have on family dynamics. If there is a sensitive reason for an omission, it may be worth discussing with other family members or a professional counselor before making a final decision.

Can a family choose not to publish an obituary at all?

Yes, publishing an obituary is not a legal requirement and is entirely at the discretion of the family. Some choose not to publish out of a desire for privacy or other personal reasons.

If the deceased had requests for their obituary, should the family honor them?

If the deceased left specific requests or guidelines for their obituary, it is respectful for the family to honor those wishes as closely as possible. However, the family should also feel comfortable making adjustments if needed to accommodate the situation at the time of death.