Obituary of Josephine Marian Ackerman

It is with heavy hearts, but a lifetime of precious memories, that we announce the passing of our dear mother and grandmother, Josephine Ackerman, at the age of 89 years, on October 21, 2020 at Wascana Rehab Centre. Mom, our greatest teacher, attended Normal School where she earned her teaching certificate.  She accepted her first teaching assignment in Holdfast where she met Daniel to whom she was married for 53 years.  They farmed at Holdfast on the Ackerman family homestead. Mom was proud of the farm and loved her farming life during both good and challenging years.  She would always humbly say that she never worked harder than anyone else, but truly, she taught us the meaning of hard work! In 1961, while still farming, the family moved to their lifelong Regina home on Garnet Street. Mom will be remembered for her sincere smile, caring nature and love for her children, grandchildren and precious great grandchildren. Her house guests were always greeted with a hug when they stepped into her kitchen to enjoy a visit, a meal or simply some “Grandma Ackerman” favorites; flapjacks, cinnamon buns, perogies and instant coffee.

Mom was predeceased by her husband (Daniel), daughter (Sharon Holliday), parents (Antonia and Joseph Matycio), siblings (Lillian Tisnic, Gordon Matycio, Julianne Sorotski).  She is survived by her children  Jim (Brenda) Ackerman, Sandra (Michael) Harazny, Barry (Chris) Ackerman, Beverly (Keith) Hiller, Daniel (Brenda) Ackerman, Son in law David Holliday (Pam), Grandchildren, Sharlene Holliday, Sheryl (Steve) Raymond, Michael Holliday, Leah (Todd) Gatto, Dean ( Andrea) Ackerman, Brett (Shayla) Ackerman, Riley (Catherine) Ackerman, Mark (Dahlia) Harazny, Kendal (Kristen) Harazny, Natasha (Jason) McKay, Dylan (Lindsey) Ackerman, Jordan (Melissa) Hiller, Brendon (Nicole) Hiller, Kelsey (Geoff) Richardson, Matthew Ackerman, Janna (Joey) Staniowski, Andrew Ackerman, 32 great grandchildren, 4 sisters  (Grace, Gladys, Mary and Virginia), 4 brothers (Roger, Victor, Ronnie, and Ernie) and many other relatives, nieces, nephews, and friends.

We wish to express our gratitude to the staff and residents of Ward 2-5 at Wascana Rehab Centre for their sincere love and care of Mom during the past two and a half years. Our family was blessed with your presence.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private family funeral will be held at St. Peter’s Church on Wednesday, October 28. There will be a live video stream of the service at  https://youtu.be/QoQrmp_fGtk at 10:00 a.m. for those unable to attend.  Interment to follow at the Holdfast Cemetery in Holdfast, Sk. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Recreation Therapy Department of Wascana Rehab or a charity of your choice.