Ronald Frederick “Fred” Ackerman, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away leaving behind the legacy of a life well lived, friendships faithfully kept and a family deeply loved.

Fred was born December 8, 1941, in Sebring, Ohio, the son of the late R. Kieth Ackerman and Edna (Wiegand) Ackerman. He attended Salem High School, graduating with the Class of 1959, and throughout his life remained particularly fond of his school and the friendships formed there. His Salem High School alumni gatherings were occasions he always looked forward to and treasured.

On October 1, 1961, Fred married his beloved wife, Linda (Griffith) Ackerman, beginning a marriage that would span nearly 65 years.

Fred devoted 35 years of his working life to General Motors before retiring. While his career reflected his dedication and strong work ethic, Fred's life outside of work was filled with the people, music and pastimes that brought him great joy.

Music held a special place in Fred's life. He loved playing the saxophone and was seldom one to pass up an opportunity to play with a local band wherever he happened to be. Music was more than simply a hobby for Fred; it was something he genuinely loved and enjoyed sharing with others.

He was also an avid golfer and enjoyed many hours on the golf course. Fred loved playing bingo, attending Salem High School alumni gatherings and spending time among friends. Above all else, however, his greatest joy was his family. He dearly loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took great pride in watching the generations of his family grow.

In addition to his wife, Linda, Fred leaves to cherish his memory his two children, Rosemarie (Scott) Donley of Ashland and Darrin (Diana) Ackerman; five grandchildren, Erik (Kristen) Donley of Shaker Heights, Ohio, Ethan (Sharon) Donley of Asheville, North Carolina, Dana (Mike) Maietta of Canfield, Brooke Ackerman of Lakewood, and Chase Ackerman of Salem; and five great-grandchildren, Lex Donley, Drew Donley, Jude Donley, Wells Donley and Luca Maietta.

He is also survived by his brother, Donald (Sonia) Ackerman of Glendale, Arizona, and his uncle, Marion Ackerman of Sunbury, Ohio.

In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his sister, Frieda Ackerman.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until noon, with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 noon.

Graveside services and interment at Grandview Cemetery will be private and reserved for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fred's memory to the Salem High School Alumni Association or to Brethren Care Village, 2140 Center Street, c/o Belmont Tower, Ashland, Ohio 44805.

Fred will be remembered for the music he played, the friendships he maintained, the simple pleasures he enjoyed and, most of all, the devotion he had for his family. His saxophone may now be silent, but the music, memories and love he leaves behind will continue in the lives of those who knew him best.