John Paul Ackerman, 82, of Ely, dies

John Paul Ackerman, 82, of Ely, passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2014.
He was born on July 1, 1931 in Willmar, MN to Russell and Martha (Berg) Ackerman. He graduated from Willmar High School in 1949. He excelled in sports throughout college. He attended St. Olaf College. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and served four years aboard the USS Lake Champlain CVA-39. He then graduated from St. Cloud University and began his career as a physical education/health teacher and coached football, basketball, track and wrestling at Pillager and Ellendale with two football championships.
He was married to Shirley (Christopher) for 57 years. They lived in Buffalo, MN then settled in Ely where they raised their children and he continued teaching and coaching. He enjoyed many outdoor activities.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Ivan and Robert, sister Margaret and beloved son Bill.
He is survived by daughters: Jane and Ann (John Hassett) of Duluth; son Joseph of Ely; grandchildren: Mariah (Tom Pearson) of Arizona, Briana (Jake), Billie Jo, Michael (Heather), Josh, Gavrielle, Aurora, Donald and Millie; great grandsons: Cayden and Carson.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Ely with visitation taking place one hour prior to the service at the church. Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.