JoEllyn Ackley

JoEllyn Inhoff Ackley was born July 5, 1951, in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, to Vern and Betty Inhoff. She spent her childhood in Hayward, Wisconsin, where she was an active member of First Lutheran Church and developed a lifelong love of family, faith, and community.

As a student at Hayward High School, JoEllyn embraced every opportunity to be involved. She participated in many clubs and activities, proudly serving as a varsity cheerleader before graduating with the Class of 1969. She continued her education at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, carrying with her the enthusiasm and determination that would define her life.

On November 6, 1971, JoEllyn married the love of her life, Bruce Ackley of Hayward. Together they built a life rooted in love, adventure, and unwavering commitment. As a proud active Air Force wife of 22 years, she embraced military life with grace, supporting her family through assignments such as Turkey, Alaska, and three tours at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.

JoEllyn's greatest joy was her family. As a devoted mother of three children, she poured her heart into every stage of their lives. Whether serving as room Mom, cheering from the sidelines, or spending countless hours driving to baseball, hockey, and volleyball practices, she made sure her children always knew they were loved, supported, and always had their back.

When her children were older, JoEllyn pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a school nurse. For over 22 years, she faithfully served middle school students in Colorado, touching countless lives with her kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit.

To know JoEllyn was to know someone who gave selflessly. Her husband, children and grandchildren were always the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She found joy in life's simple pleasures-getting lost in a good book, a spirited game of Yahtzee, working on puzzles, going to Christmas craft shows, watching The Great British Baking Show, and spending time with those she loved. JoEllyn cherished her friendships, delighting in movie outings, long conversations, lunches together, and spirited games of Bunco. She also loved "tootling" around and swimming in the peaceful waters of Round Lake, where some of her happiest memories were made.

JoEllyn will be remembered for her generous heart, quiet strength, unwavering love, and the countless ways she cared for others. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, devotion, laughter, and unconditional love that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

JoEllyn passed away peacefully at home with her entire family close by her side on June 13, 2026. JoEllyn is survived by her loving husband Bruce, together for 60 years, her three children Amy Jo (Tim) Ackley Adams, Aaron (Nicole) Ackley, Anders (Misty) Ackley, six grandchildren Kaden, Keegan, Hayden, Harper, Avery, and Isla; one brother Gary (Lynn) Inhoff, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Vern and Betty Inhoff.