David Wayne Ackerman

David "Dave" Wayne Ackerman, 78, of Berkley, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 26, 2025, surrounded by the deep and abiding love of his family.

Born on February 5, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, Dave was the beloved son of the late Roy and Jean (Danzyk) Ackerman. One of four siblings, he grew up with a strong sense of family and duty—values that shaped the man he became.

At the age of 18, Dave was drafted into the U.S. Army. Though his service was called upon by necessity, he embraced it with pride and commitment. Stationed in Germany, he formed lifelong bonds and built memories that would stay with him forever. He was honorably discharged in 1971.

In 1977, Dave married the love of his life, Pamala Smith. Together, they raised two beautiful daughters and built a life full of laughter, hard work, and adventure. Their love was deep and unwavering, and they shared every joy until Pamala’s sudden passing in 2016—a loss he and his family felt profoundly.

Dave was a man of strength and character. Stoic and grounded, yet full of joy and humor, his laughter could fill a room. It was the loudest, most infectious laugh—the kind you could always hear over the noise, and the kind that made everything feel okay.

A true gearhead, Dave loved his hot rods, especially his Mustang. His perfect day was cruising Woodward Avenue during the Dream Cruise, The Jeff Healey Band on the stereo, a cold beer in hand, and his loved ones by his side. His joy was simple, genuine, and deeply rooted in the things and people he loved.

He worked tirelessly - holding two jobs—to ensure his family never went without. He never complained, never hesitated. His daughters knew him as the world’s greatest dad: devoted, selfless, and always putting their happiness first. He taught them to live with balance, reminding them often, “Do everything in moderation.”

In his final days, even in the hospital, Dave found the silver lining—cherishing each moment spent with his daughters. It brought him peace and joy to be surrounded by the family he loved so fiercely.

Dave is survived by his daughters, Eva Iller and Katie Ackerman, who will forever carry his love, his values, and his unforgettable laugh in their hearts. While nothing can fill the silence left behind, they find comfort in knowing he has been reunited in Heaven with his beloved Pamala, his parents, and his brother - who preceded him in death just this past June.

Dave's legacy is one of love, strength, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.