Edward M. Ackermann, age 84, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, June 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Edward was born on December 22, 1941, in Bac, Yugoslavia, to Franz and Magdalena Ackermann. He lived a life defined by faith, service, generosity, and devotion to his family and community.
A devout Catholic, Edward's faith was a guiding force throughout his life and provided the foundation for his character and values. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 25 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His military career was marked by unwavering commitment, honor, and patriotism, and his service to the nation remained one of his proudest accomplishments.
Known for his never-ending giving heart, Edward believed deeply in helping others and strengthening the community around him. He generously dedicated countless hours to causes that were important to him, including Belle Clair Soccer, the Boy Scouts Troop 53, Catholic Social Services, the Knights of Columbus, and Main Street Mascoutah. Whether through volunteer service, leadership, mentorship, or quiet acts of kindness, Edward sought to make a difference in the lives of others. His compassion, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand left a lasting impact on his community and on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Edward will be remembered for his steadfast faith, devotion to family, commitment to service, and genuine concern for others. His legacy of kindness, strength, generosity, and selfless giving will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Franz and Magdalena Ackermann; his brother, Frank Ackermann; his first wife, Alice Ackermann; and his beloved daughter, Kathi Sue Ackermann.
He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Judy Ackermann, whom he married September 5, 1998; his children, Kristen Miller and her husband, Christopher Miller, Karin Hall and her husband, Eric Hall, and Kevin Ackermann and his wife, Sarah Ackermann; seven cherished grandchildren, Ronald Miller, Allison Miller, Roy Miller, Nolan Hall, Logan Hall, Emmalyn Hall, and Zuri Ackermann.
He also leaves behind extended family members, friends, fellow veterans, and members of his faith community who will miss him dearly.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Relay for Life, the American Heart Association, Catholic Charities of Southern Illinois – Diocese of Belleville, Gateway Pet Guardians, or the Belleville Area Humane Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, and from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Shiloh, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Shiloh, IL, with Fr. Nicholas Junker officiating.
In recognition of his faithful and honorable service to our nation, Lieutenant Colonel Edward M. Ackermann will be laid to rest with military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
May he rest in the peace of God's eternal embrace.
