Mar 10, 2021

David Melvin Ackerman (1955-2021)

Posted Mar 10, 2021 9:15 PM

David Melvin Ackerman, age 65, went to be with the Lord on March 9, 2021 following a year-long battle with brain cancer.

He was born in North Platte, Nebraska on April 15, 1955, a fitting date for one who became a tax accountant. The first of five children, David graduated from North Platte Senior High in 1973, attended community college in North Platte and graduated Hasting College in 1978.

David ventured to Eugene, Oregon where he opened an energy contracting business. He relocated to San Diego, California then to Golden, Colorado, and returned to the San Diego area of Winchester where he began a long career as a professional tax accountant, forming endearing and long-term friendships with his small business client.  

He was a serial learner, dabbling in technology patents, coding, and backyard gardening.  He was most proud of corn he grew in California, as only a Nebraska Cornhusker fan could do.  He was a mischievous brother and loving son finding humor in simple things.

David was humble and frugal, proudly preferring to drive his 300,000-mile Scion over his new Tesla. He enjoyed the outdoors, cooking and visiting local wineries.

He happily married his partner of many years, Arleen Sarreal-Ackerman. 

David was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Ackerman and youngest brother, Peter Ackerman. 

In addition to his wife, Arleen, he is survived by her son, Jake Gibson, with whom he had a special relationship; by his mother, Zoe Valentine Holland of Lincoln, NE; Matthew (Tammy) Ackerman of North Platte, NE; Cynthia Lowry of Denver, CO; Ann (Jan) Frohman of Lincoln, NE; and many nieces and nephews.

A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.  Carpenter Memorial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. The service will be livestreamed via Carpenter Memorial Chapels Facebook page. Online condolences and sharing of memories may be directed to www.carpentermemorial.com.