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Sam Ackerman Obituary

Ackerman, Sam Lifelong social and political activist and Hyde Park resident passed away suddenly but peacefully on May 1. He is survived by and will be fondly remembered by his large and loving brood of family and a multitude of friends. Beloved father of Joseph, Valerie, David, Jodie and Anna, cherished grandfather of Daniel, Alex, Nicole, Alain, Celina, Robert, Jazmin, Kevin and Cheyanne, and former husband of Carol and Martha. Services will be held Sunday, May 3 at 2 p.m. at KAM Isaiah Israel Temple, 1100 E. Hyde Park Blvd. Shiva will follow at Sam's apartment Sunday, 4 to 9 p.m. and Monday, 6 to 9 p.m.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on May 3, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Sam Ackerman

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Denise Bransford

May 4, 2009

I only met Sam Ackerman rather recently, in 2007, when he attended the Harold Washington Photo exhibit at Roosevelt University's Gage Gallery. We struck up a conversation about the late Mayor Washington and a friendship was born. When I called Sam recently to ask him to speak at the Harold Washington chair and exhibit dedication at Roosevelt on April 15th he didn't hesitate to say yes. What a wonderful gift for so many of us that we were allowed to hear some of Sam's stories prior to his passing. I will miss my friend. I will keep you, his family and friends, in my prayers.

May 4, 2009

May 04/2009

Please accept my sincere condolences. My prayers Jodie, are that you and your family are strengthend and comforted.

~ Denise Anderson, Chicago Illinois

Sharay Johnson

May 4, 2009

Jodie and Ackerman Family:

I am saddened by your loss. I will definitely keep The Ackerman Family in my prayers.

Kathryn Jacobs

May 4, 2009

Oh, my...What does one say about Sam Ackerman, our dear crumugen. I was certain that he would outlive all of us. My heart goes out to those who shared his life and especially to the nine grandchildren he was devoted to and who gave him much joy.

There wasn't a progressive cause over the past 50 odd years that Sam didn't have some involvement with or some role. He wasn't yet ready to pass the torch to the next generation. He still had work to do.
I certainly will miss conversations with him about the latest issues and news. His robust fervor and lust for all that life had to offer. Any time I see a tennis racquet, a fishing pole, a flyer for a march, gathering or meeting a thought of Sam will be present as well. A blessed memory.

Diana Cruz

May 4, 2009

My most heartfelt condolences to Jodie and her family in this difficult time. May you find comfort in the memories you shared with your father.

Lanny Waitsman

May 4, 2009

I remember Sam as a friend, roommate, and business partner. I remember a ready smile, a ready opinion, and reliably honest advice. I will miss him.

Mike Klonsky

May 3, 2009

I will remember Sam ss a passionate, dedicated and energetic fighter for social justice, human rights and world peace. I also think back to those great days of the Harold Washington campaign and the important role Sam played in electing Chicago's first African-American mayor. But I will mainly remember him first as a friend who always had a good word and a handshake to share whenever we met. My sincere condolences to Sam's family

anna (Canter)Pincus

May 3, 2009

The Canter family sends you all of our thoughts. He is eatting with mom and having a great argument with dad. He will be missed.

Amy Isaacs

May 3, 2009

Sam was a devoted member of Americans for Democratic Action. He will be missed. Sincere condolences to his entire family.

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