Jesse R. Acklam

WATERFORD – Jesse R. Acklam, 71, passed away at Racine Hospice House on Friday, January 2, 2015.

    He was born in Racine on July 30, 1943, the son of Jesse G. and Marilyn (nee: Hanson) Acklam.  He graduated from Horlick High School in 1961. In 1968 Jess graduated from UW Milwaukee with a degree in Fine Arts. His love of architecture inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright led him to become a registered architect.  Jesse began his own practice after working for firms in Milwaukee as well as collaborating with architects in Racine.  After his retirement he enjoyed sharing his knowledge of art and design with young people as a substitute teacher in the Burlington schools. Jesse served his country in the Army Reserves.

   In addition to art and drawing Jesse enjoyed nature walks; especially at Whitnall Park in Hales Corners, traveling to Door County, listening to classical and jazz music and playing the piano. Also Jesse enjoyed playing chess and researching his family genealogy.  Most of all he loved spending time with his family and pets.

   On July 1, 1972 he married Mary Voland at the First Presbyterian Church in Chenoa, IL.  In addition to Mary, Jesse is survived by his children, Ryan Acklam of Delray Beach, FL and Emily (Andrew Scott) Acklam of Silver Lake, WI; his precious granddaughters, Aurora and Alexandria Scott; his mother, Marilyn Acklam of Racine; his sisters and brother, Susan (Charles) Kind of Racine, David (Teresa) Acklam of Tucson, AZ, Kris (Michael) Krohn of Edwards, CO; his sisters-in-law, Cheryl (Steve) Fladwood of Waterford, Valerie (Charles) Black of Jacksonville, IL, Kay (Dave) Fulkerson of Streator, IL; as well as many nieces, nephews and dear friends.  Jesse was preceded in death by his father, Jesse G. Acklam and his infant brother, Mark Joel Acklam.

    Family and friends are invited to meet in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Saturday, January 10, 2015 for a visitation from 10:30 a.m. until noon.  A Christian service officiated by Rev. Dean Van Brunt celebrating and remembering Jesse’s life will follow at noon.  A private interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park.  Memorials have been suggested to Racine Hospice House or charity of your choice.

   The Acklam family thanks Hospice Alliance and Racine Hospice House for the loving and professional care that was provided to Jesse.  Also, thank you to all those from Horlick’s Class of ’61 and family for the cards and letters of support and encouragement during his illness.