Howard Frank Ackerly

Howard Frank Ackerly, 84 of Stamford, died peacefully in his sleep on Friday August 2, 2013 after a long illness. Howard was born on August 8, 1928 at home in Westport, CT, son of Ruth Gregory and Wallace Ackerly.

Howard graduated from Staples High School in Westport and proudly joined the US Army to serve during World War II as an MP. After his honorable discharge, he went to school on the GI bill at the University of Bridgeport, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He joined Bartlett Tree Experts as an accountant and retired from there 47 years later as a Vice President and Comptroller of the Company.

On July 17, 1954 he married Beverly Cook of New Canaan on her birthday. They celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary two weeks ago and have 2 children, Karen L Jones of Stamford and Scott H. Ackerly and his wife Maria of Lexington SC.

Besides his wife and children, Howard is survived by his grandchildren, Matthew Jones of Stamford, Oscar Figueroa of SC, and Curtis Ackerly and Kelly Ackerly of SC, and 2 great-grandchildren, Adrianna and Michael Figueroa. Howard is also survived by his sister, Helena Laird of W. Babylon NY, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. He was pre-deceased by his sister Carol, and his brothers, W. Donald and Martin.

Howard loved children, enjoyed talking to every person he ever met and had many stories and legends to share. He believed in education and took night classes in topics such as computer science and watercolor painting. He was active as an adult leader in the Junior Achievement organization. He was a Life Member of the Masonic Temple Lodge 65 in Westport.

Calling hours will be held on Monday August 5 from 4 to 8 pm and a Memorial Service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday August 6 at Leo P. Gallagher and Son Funeral Home at 2900 Summer Street. The Reverend Dr. David Van Dyke will be officiating. Inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA. 02241-7005 or a charity of the donor’s choice. To leave an online condolence please visit www.leopgallagherstamford.com.