Alvin Acker

Alvin Acker, 97, formerly of Topeka, passed away on June 17, 2017 in Shawnee Mission, KS.

Alvin W. Acker was born on November 5, 1919 in Highland, KS to Willis and Fern (Brenner) Acker. He graduated from Highland High School and went on to attend Highland Community College, as well as Kansas State University. He received his Mechanical Engineering degree from Kansas State University in 1942.

Alvin served in the United States Army from 1944 until 1946.

He married Jewel Hole in 1947, beginning a lifetime together that lasted 65 years. Jewel preceded him in death in 2012.

He worked for Henry Manufacturing in Topeka, where he was responsible for designing industrial equipment. Henry Manufacturing was eventually acquired by Allis-Chalmers Corporation, where Alvin retired after 35 years with the company.

Following his retirement he embarked on a second career that included domestic and international travel with his wife, Jewel, construction of a summer home at Lake Perry, KS, rose gardening and active membership with the Topeka Rose Society, as well as an active involvement with what eventually resulted in decades of volunteer service with Habitat for Humanity as well as the local Red Cross chapter. During his time with Habitat for Humanity, 35 homes were constructed for local families.

Alvin understood the importance of effective communication, and participated in the Toastmasters Organization throughout his professional career. He served as District Governor of Toastmasters District 22 during his years of participation.

He was actively engaged in various professional associations including, National Society of Professional Engineers, and the Kansas Engineering Society.

Alvin was an active member of Topeka First United Methodist Church, and was recognized for his 65 years of membership and active participation in the church.

He enjoyed serving as an adult leader for the Boy Scouts, coaching youth baseball teams, and participating in Senior Olympics at State and National Levels for many years. Alvin was also a proud season ticket holder for KSU football games for over 40 years.

Alvin's most-enjoyed hobby was genealogy, in which he was able to research his own, as well as Jewel's family history.

He is survived by children, Karen (Larry) Elliott, of Shawnee, KS, and Del (Peggy) Acker of Sheridan, WY; sister Joanne Acker, of Valley Falls, KS; grandchildren, Cory Elliott, Kira (Jerry) Fidler, Marshall (Alexis) Acker, and Lauren Acker; as well as eight great-grandchildren.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Charles Acker.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Topeka First United Methodist Church in the Klasse Chapel.

Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m. until the service time. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel.

Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 1000 SE Hancock Topeka, KS 66607.

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