William A Ackerman

William Arthur Ackerman II
February 11, 1940 – June 2, 2021

William Arthur Ackerman II, age 81, of Wayzata, passed away on June 2, 2021.  Preceded in death by his parents, William and Reakie Ackerman.  Survived by his wife of 13 years, Keto; daughter, Sally Ackerman & her husband Giorgi Gochitashvili of Newport, MN; grandchildren, Sophie, Luca, & Otari Gochitashvili; and former wife, Kay McCarthy.  

Billy Ackerman grew up on Lake Minnetonka and, although he loved his travels around the world, always came back to live near the Lake.  In his early years, he built model airplanes and a speed boat, dreaming about flying in the air or over the water.  He manifested those dreams later in life, serving as Captain and Navigator in the Air Force during the 1960’s, piloting small planes as a civilian, and racing sailboats in many regattas on Lake Minnetonka.  He used the Lake year round, sailing and speed-boating in the summer and ice-boating in the winter.  

Always active and athletic, he found a sport to suit every season of his life.  He played hockey, taught downhill skiing and was a competitive water-skier.  He then coached tennis, earned his black belt in taekwondo, and developed a passion for golf.  During his later years, he walked miles a day and practiced qi gong with deep commitment.  

Billy also equally enjoyed contemplative study.  He avidly read religious and philosophical texts making elaborate tabulations on each and jotting down meaningful quotes to remember and live by.  His favorite quote being Jesus’ words to the Pharisees in Luke 17:21, “The Kingdom of God is within you.”  He loved to discuss politics and world order, priding himself on his comprehensive working knowledge of the world stage.  His capacity for comedy and cutting wit were unmatched.  He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.  

A memorial service will be held on Sunday June 6, at David Lee Funeral Home, 1220 Wayzata Blvd. East, Wayzata.  Visitation beginning at 1:30 and 2:00 funeral service.  Burial at Groveland Cemetery, 3:00 p.m.
 

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