Richard "Dick" Middleton Acker - Rickey Stokes News

Viewed: 171

Richard Middleton Acker, known affectionately as Dick, passed away on September 30, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 89.

Born on August 5, 1937, in Washington, D.C., he lived a life marked by faith, service, intelligence, humility, and steadfast devotion to the people he loved. Dick was the kind of man who made a lasting impression wherever he went, not through loud words or grand gestures, but through quiet strength, patience, and an unfailing willingness to help. He was, in every sense, the rock of his family, and those who knew him best understood that his presence brought comfort, stability, and wisdom.

Dick graduated from Auburn University in 1961 with a degree in Electrical Engineering, a field in which he excelled and which became the foundation for a long and meaningful career. He loved his work and never considered it work in the ordinary sense, because he truly enjoyed what he did and took pride in doing it well. During his time at Redstone Arsenal with NASA, he earned the nickname “Humdaddy,” because he constantly hummed and whistled while he worked. He had a remarkable ability to fix almost anything, including Barbie dolls, and he approached every challenge with patience, skill, and a calm confidence that reassured everyone around him.

Dick married the love of his life, Bonnie Webster Acker, in 1961, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and enduring love. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that stood as an example to all who knew them. He was preceded in death by his brothers David Acker and Dan Acker. He is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie, daughters, Laura Acker Nelson (Wes Nelson), and Rebecca Acker Miner (Garth Miner). He also leaves behind his brothers Louis Acker (Allie), and Tom Acker (Dawn), along with several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Wesley Nelson (Cadie), James Nelson (Emma), Benjamin Falter (Kelly), and Daniel Falter (Kelsey). He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Audrey Nelson, Mollie Nelson, and Lucy Miner, who brought him great joy. His family was the center of his world, and he loved them with a steady, generous heart.

Dick’s faith was the guiding force of his life. He was a man of deep belief who loved his Lord and Savior and trusted fully in God’s timing. He was patient and steadfast in spirit, often reminding others through both his words and his example that everything happens in God’s time. His ministry was one of quiet compassion and service, especially through his visits to hospitals, where he checked on others and brought Communion to parishioners in the Catholic Church. He also had a special talent for woodworking, which he generously used in service to his church, creating and building pieces that became a lasting part of its ministry and worship. Whether through his hands, his presence, or his willingness to care for others, Dick lived out his faith in a way that was genuine and deeply personal. His ministry reflected the essence of who he was a man who understood that love is best shown through service, presence, and care.

He was a member of Saint Columba Catholic Church, where he also sang in the choir. His life in the church was an important part of his identity, and his commitment to his faith community was evident in all he did. Dick was also an Eagle Scout, a distinction that reflected the values of character, responsibility, and service that he carried throughout his life. He was proud of his accomplishments, but he never sought attention for them. Instead, he lived with quiet dignity and a sincere desire to do good for others.

Those who knew Dick will remember his optimism and his constant ability to look on the bright side. He had a reassuring spirit and a warm sense of humor, and he made life better for the people around him simply by being himself. He was the best man in the world to those who loved him, and his legacy will live on in the family he nurtured, the faith he practiced, and the many lives he touched with kindness and grace.

A life so well lived leaves behind more than memories. It leaves behind an example. Dick Acker’s life was one of devotion, service, and love, and he will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Saint Columba Catholic Church Chapel with Father Patrick Gallagher officiating. Dick will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park with military honors. The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 5:00pm-6:30pm at Sunset Funeral Home. A vigil service will be held on Friday beginning at 6:30pm.