Gerald (Jerry) G. Ackerson

Jerry Ackerson (1936-2026)After 47 years of marriage to Jerry, I can confidently say it was never boring! Jerry was, in fact, the most fun, energetic, clever, and motivated individual I have ever known. He passed away quietly in his sleep on March 1st from complications with Parkinson's, just after celebrating his 90th birthday—because, true to form, he never wanted to miss a good party.Born on February 16, 1936, in Independence, Oregon, Jerry lived a life filled with passion, travel, and high-flying adventures. After graduating from Willamette University in 1958, he joined the ROTC, learned to fly, and spent six years flying the C-130 for the Air Force. He then transitioned to a distinguished career as a United Airlines pilot, taking his love for the sky to the skies professionally.Our 47 years together were an adventure. We bicycled through Europe on six different self-guided trips and, loving it so much, decided to live in London and France for four years. Jerry was always on the go—fly fishing, sailing, snow skiing, playing cards with the family, working out, or training our standard poodles in agility and flyball. He was a dedicated patron of the arts, particularly the Issaquah Village Theater. After retiring from the airlines, he continued to share his passion for aviation as a lead and volunteer at the Museum of Flight in Seattle.Because of our shared faith, I am certain that he is now dancing with the angels (and we all know how he loved to dance!). He truly lived a full life.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Museum of Flight (https://www.museumofflight.org/support/make-a-gift).Service will be held at the Rainier Beach Presbyterian Church, South Seattle.