Richard Ackerly

Richard L. Ackerly, 91, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown, NY from health complications. He is the son of Frank and Elizabeth Ackerley of Margaretville, NY and was born in Margaretville on August 11, 1933.

Rich was predeceased by his wife, Barbara Ada (Wart). He is survived by his stepson, DK Lifgren, Jr. and step grandson, Dustyn K. Lifgren of East Falmouth, MA; sisters-in-law, Sandra Cerosaletti of Unadilla and Cheryl L. (Gary R.) Newton of Oneonta, NY and many nieces and nephews. He was also survived by his only living sibling, Shirley A. DeSilva of Virginia Beach, VA; nieces Linda G. Dickman and Tamara A. Baessler; and nephews Thomas Deegan, Peter Deegan and Michael Ondish. Rich was also predeceased by his brother-in-law Clive W. (Dawn) Wart, sister-in-law Elaine (AI) Codington, three sisters Ruth Ondish, Arlene Deegan, Glenna Jester and one brother, infant Thomas Ackerley.

Richard retired from the United States Air Force as Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in June of 1974. He served at many locations overseas including 3 terms in Vietnam with 366 TFS. He belonged to the American Legion Post 216 of Middletown, NY and VFW Post 487 of Davenport, NY. He may be remembered from working for the NY State Conservation at Belleayre Mountain Resort, Highmount, NY, Special Olympics Chairman for Delaware County, and night shift supervisor custodian at State University New York, Oneonta. He was true and dedicated to his church, community, military and family. He loved to be in nature, gardening, fishing and doing the “Right Thing.” His biggest passion was his woodworking projects and reading daily bible scriptures.

Service will be held on Friday, May 9th, 2025 at 11 am at Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut Street, Oneonta with the Rev. John Buddle officiating. Burial will follow in the Oneonta Plains Cemetery.

To send the family an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home.