Philip C. Van Acker

Philip C. Van Acker, 93, of Lecanto, passed away on Tues., Oct. 21, 2014 at his home surrounded by family . A native of Leamington, Ontario, Canada, he was born March 14, 1921 one of eight children to Gustaaf and Leona (Coppens) Van Acker. Philip served briefly and was a veteran of the Canadian Navy before meeting his wife Evelyn of 58 years, who preceded him in death on Feb 14, 2001. Mr. Van Acker relocated his family to the states where his children grew up, and moved to Citrus County nearly seven years ago to be close to his family after the passing of his wife. Philip was a professional truck driver who retired from Roundtree Transport , Ft. Lauderdale , Fl. Philip’s passion was motorcycles and he was able to continue riding until the age of 87!

Philip is survived by his three children: Donna Donley Salter(Ray), Lecanto; Marianne Smith (Larry), Gilbert, SC; Richard Van Acker, Port Charlotte and brother Joseph Van Acker, Cass City, MI; grandchildren Cherie, Jeff, Rodney, Tracy, Jason, Danielle and Philip; five great grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren. In addition to his wife of 58 years, Evelyn Van Acker, Philip was also preceded in death by brothers Rene, Frank, Ed and Lou and sisters Rachel and Marie. A celebration of Philip’s life will be held on Mon., Oct. 27, 2014 at 4:00 P.M. at Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, with Pastor Greg Richie officiating. Entombment will follow on Tues., Oct. 28, 2014 AT 3:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery North, Pompano Beach. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in Mr. Van Acker’s name to Hospice of Citrus and the Nature Coast, P.O. Box 641270, Beverly Hills, FL 34465 www.wilderfuneral.com