Donald Leonard Ackaret's Obituary
Donald Leonard Ackaret was born November 30, 1926 in Emmett, Idaho to Henry Morgan Ackaret and Daisy May Wilson. He passed away May 20, 2014 in Oregon City at age 87. Don worked at the Swan Island Shipyards prior to joining the Navy in 1944. Don married Lois Syrie on June 25, 1950 in Emmett, Idaho. He attended the Spokane Telegraph School and in June 1952 began his 37-year career as a telegrapher with Northern Pacific Railroad and Burlington Northern Railway in Washington, Idaho, and Montana. Don and Lois moved to Tillamook in 1989 and in 2010 moved to the Portland area to be near family. Don was an amateur radio operator for over 50 years. He enjoyed fishing, fly-tying, whittling, gardening, and camping. Don was a member of the Tillamook Church of the Nazarene where he enjoyed serving as an usher for several years and being involved with the Primetime group. Don is survived by his beloved wife, Lois, of 63 years; children Joyce (David) Spencer, Debbie (Fred) Dodd, and Jerry (Judith) Ackaret; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. Survivors also include his step-brother Richard (Laura) Dymoke, cousin Ken (Ellen) Meyers, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers James and Arthur, sisters Daisy Alice Ackaret, Julia Ackaret, Elma Smiley, and Rose Crowder. Holman-Hankins-Bowker-and Waud of Oregon City are in charge of the arrangements. Interment will be in the Willamette National Cemetery on May 28, 2014, with Rev. Milton Culver of the Tigard Church of God officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Don's memory to the Tigard Church of God, 15670 SW 98th Avenue, Tigard, OR 97224, or Tillamook Church of the Nazarene, 2611 Third Street, Tillamook, OR 97141.
What’s your fondest memory of Donald?
What’s a lesson you learned from Donald?
Share a story where Donald's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Donald you’ll never forget.
How did Donald make you smile?

