Robert Louis Ackerman

Robert Louis Ackerman passed away peacefully at Vosswood Rehab Center on February 22, 2019 at the age of 96. Louis was born April 6, 1922 to Louis Ackerman and Mary Anna (Mitzi) Haelmeister Ackerman in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Reagan High School and worked at the Rice Hotel where his father was the head chef. After his father’s death in 1936, he began his over 40 year career with Humble Oil and Refining Company. Louis enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1942. For part of the war he was stationed at Ellington Field near Houston and later sent to Manila in the Philippines where he stayed until the end of the war working on General McArthur’s staff. His next location would have been Okinawa, but fortunately, the war ended before that assignment. He was honorably discharged at the end of 1945 and returned to his employment with Humble Oil.

Louis was the oldest of five children. Three of his siblings predeceased him: his brothers Johnny and wife Shirley, Marcel and wife Betty Jean and sister Elizabeth (Mitzi) Werckle and husband Joe. One brother survives him: Frederick Ackerman and wife Archie. He is also survived by 15 nieces and nephews. Although Louis had no children of his own, he loved his nieces and nephews and that love was returned by each of them. No Christmas went by that they didn’t receive a special card from their Uncle Louis.

Louis is survived by his wife, Yvonne and her two daughters, Pattie and husband Bob Burns and Cathy and her husband Larry Huber. Yvonne has a sister, Ann Aky, who adored him. Louis especially enjoyed his time with the four grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as Papa Louis.

Louis and Yvonne were avid ballroom dancers and were dancing until a short time before his death.

For the last few years he attended a bible study at Memorial Church of Christ which brought much joy into his life.

Louis was blessed to have good neighbors and friends. One of his neighbors, Larry Snelling, should especially be recognized and thanked by the family. You were truly a Godsend to Louis.

A memorial service will be held at Memorial Church of Christ, 900 Echo Lane, Houston, Texas on Tuesday, February 26 and 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Larry Phillips officiating. His ashes will be interred at a later date at the military cemetery in Houston with full honors.

Because of Louis’ love and concern for the welfare of children, the family request that in lieu of flowers, those who want to make a donation in his honor consider St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.