Jerry Ackerman

Jerry L. “Dr. Sold” Ackerman, 78, a life-long resident of the Dover-New Philadelphia area died Thursday, November 23, 2017 in Union Hospital at Dover following a period of declining health.

Born in New Philadelphia on June 12, 1939, Jerry was the son of the late David L. and Belva (Young) Ackerman. After Jerry’s father was killed in an automobile accident, Jerry’s mother married Donald Stephan who took on the role of a father figure to Jerry.

His formal education took place at New Philadelphia High School where he graduated with the class of 1957. Following graduation, Jerry joined the military. After receiving his top-secret clearance, Jerry was assigned to the 11th US Army Security Agency Field Station at Baumholder, Germany and spent the next three years serving his country.

Upon his discharge, Jerry was employed by Dover Chemical for 16 years, with his last position being the company’s Safety Director. Jerry then entered the real estate business where he spent the next 45 years. He filled many positions over the years on both the local and state levels and in 2013, was awarded “Realtor Emeritus” status by the National Association of Realtors.

Jerry’s faith was nurtured at Dover First Moravian Church. There he served in many positions, which included trustee, elder, and chairman of the Church Building Committee. He served the larger church for six years as the Ohio representative on the Eastern District Executive Board in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

On September 18, 1976, Jerry married the love of his life, Dianne Miskimen. The couple shared in 39 years of marriage prior to her passing in 2015.

He will be missed by his children, Thomas (Kera) Ackerman of Lexington, Kentucky and Joni (David) Homan of Uhrichsville; his grandchildren, Anna and Claire Ackerman and Justin, Joshua, and Bryant Homan; his step-father, Don Stephan; brothers, Todd (Terry) Stephan, Dan (Joyce) Stephan, and Gary Stephan; a brother-in-law, David (Diana) Miskimen; as well as numerous members of the Miskimen, Stephan and Ackerman families.

In addition to his father and mother, Jerry was preceded in death by a step-son, Ryan Johnson and two great-grandchildren, Aiden and Benjamin Homan.
The family will greet guests on Sunday, November 26, 2017 from 1-4 PM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover. Burial, with military honors, will take place on Monday, November 27, 2017 at 2 PM in the Sharon Moravian Church Cemetery. A celebration of Jerry’s life will be led by Rev. John Wallace at 3 PM on Monday in the Dover First Moravian Church where a meal and fellowship will immediately follow in the church social hall.

Memorial contributions in Jerry’s name may be directed to Dover First Moravian Church, 319 North Walnut Street, Dover Ohio 44622.