Waunakee/Middleton – James “Jim” Acker, age 82, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026, doing what he loved in Middleton, Wisconsin.

He was born on July 17, 1944, the eldest child to Albert and Lorraine (Meffert) Acker. Jim graduated from Middleton High School class of 1962. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in September 1962. “Jimmy” (as Letty called him) married the love of his life Letitia “Letty” Ripp on January 21, 1967, at St. John’s Catholic Church. Letty passed on February 26, 2022 in Green Valley AZ, where they enjoyed their winters.

From a young age Jim followed his parents with a lifelong love of the land. He was eager to start spring planting and spent many days watching the seeds change as the start of the harvest season approached. There he found his comfort zone, high on the combine thanking God for another bountiful harvest. This is where he found his final resting place among the stalks. He enjoyed playing cards, golfing, and watching old Westerns (Gunsmoke), Jeopardy and sports.

He is survived by his children Paul, Randy, and Renee (Fred) Ciccione; grandchildren Cassie, Jessica, Brooke (Eric Arm), Daniella, Nicolas, and Eva; great-grandchildren Korbin, Layla, and Oaklee; siblings Bob (Beverly) Acker, Gary (Shelia) Acker, Anita Allison, Karen Greiber, and Luann (Steve) Chandler. In-laws, Marilyn Heimbecker, Bob Ripp, Paulyn Ripp, Mary Jo (Ron) Mohr and Lora (Mike) Restle, Tonie Ripp, and Eileen Ripp numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents Albert and Lorraine Acker, his wife Letty Acker, brother Alan, father-in-law and mother-in-law Hardy and Evelyn Ripp, in-laws Ken Allison, Marv Greiber, Leo Heimbecker, Eugene and Jean Ripp, Roy Ripp, Jerry Ripp, Ruthie Ripp, & Connie Ripp.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at the Winn Cress Funeral Home, 2929 Peaceful Valley Parkway, Waunakee, WI  53597. 

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of gifts the family requests any and all donations can be made to St. Jude’s Hospital.

Winn-Cress Funeral Home

2929 Peaceful Valley Parkway, Waunakee

(608) 849-4513