John Leon Acker, 61, passed away suddenly at his home in Waverly, Virginia, on April 23, 2015.
Born on Sept. 13, 1953, he was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle and granddad.
John was an accomplished organist who began his musical career at the age of 6 when he began taking lessons. By his senior year at Sidney Central School, he was the organist and choir master for St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Sidney, New York.
After graduating from Westminster Choir College, Princeton, New Jersey, John continued to follow his passion for music as an organist and salesman, building a successful church organ business.
Many churches of all denominations have greatly benefited from John’s expertise, professionalism, attention to detail and musical talent. Over the course of 33 years in the church organ business, John performed countless times, enriching the lives of all who had the pleasure of hearing him play the organ.
John served honorably with the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring as a sergeant first class. His specialty was combat engineering, and he frequently performed duty as an instructor at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
John is survived by his parents, James and Helen Acker; his wife, Sherry Acker; his son, Jason (Michelle) Acker; his daughter, Jessica (David) Kurtz; his brothers, Al Acker and Bruce (Valerie) Acker; his sisters, Susan Michaud and Barbara (David) Acker- Mills; his stepdaughters, Michelle Dunaway, Alicia Overholser and Kat Shockey; and his nine grandchildren.
He was a father, husband, musician, mentor, leader and soldier.
A memorial service with military honors was held April 30 at R.W. Baker and Company Funeral Home, 11414 General Mahone Highway, Wakefield, Virginia. Condolences may be posted at www.rwbakerfh.com.