Dale Ackerman

Dale James Ackerman, 71, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family on January 6, 2026, in Marshfield, the city where he was born and where his journey began.

Born on March 29,1954, Dale grew up d on his parents’ dairy farm outside of • Curtiss. From an early age, he developed an appreciation for machinery and the outdoors— interests that would later shape his life.

Dale graduated from Owen-Withee High School in 1972. He pursued further education with determination and focus, earning a certificate as a heavy equipment operator in South Carolina in 1974. Later on in life, when Dale lived in Grand Junction, Colo., he completed a degree in auto mechanics at a technical college.

After working on the family farm and operating a grader for the Town of Hull, Dale ventured west to Wyoming. There, he spent several years working in coal mines—a demanding and rugged environment that suited his adventurous nature. In 1987, Dale faced a life-altering accident while driving a dump truck up from the mine. The incident resulted in the loss of his leg, but it never diminished his zest for life or his drive to keep moving forward.

True to form, Dale returned to one of his greatest passions: riding Harley Davidson motorcycles. He continued to travel across the United States on two wheels, embracing every opportunity for adventure. Whether parasailing over open waters, jet skiing across lakes, snowmobiling through winter trails, or simply exploring new roads on his bike—Dale lived life full throttle.

In 2004, he returned to Wisconsin to be closer to family. Even then, he remained active and engaged with the things he loved most. He was an avid NASCAR fan and found peace swimming for hours at a time— especially out on the lake where he felt most at home. Dale’s resilience and adventurous spirit left an unforgettable mark on those who knew him. His ability to overcome adversity with courage and continue pursuing what brought him joy is a testament to his strength of his character.

Dale is survived by his daughter, Ginger (Tim) Kinyon; brothers: Dennis, David, Dan, Dean and Doug; sister, Joann Raczykowski; grandson, Samuel Kinyon, goddaughter & niece, Paris Ackerman; former wives: Marjory Ackerman & Melody Moates, several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Jr. and Joyce, and his grandparents, John and Mae Wesneski and Joseph Sr. and Lillian Ackerman.

Dale’s family would like to thank Marshfield Medical Center and all of the amazing staff in Palliative Care who cared for Dale & his family with such compassion.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as an enduring reminder of a life lived boldly and without regret. A celebration of Dale’s life will be held at a later date this summer. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.