Robert “Bob” Ackerman died on February 22, 2022, after a lifetime of public service. Born on March 31, 1937 in San Francisco, California, Bob grew up understanding the value of hard work. He started working at his stepfather’s butcher shop when he was just twelve, honing a skill that would fund his education.
At 17, Bob sold his beloved VW Bug for a one-way ticket to Eugene where he attended the University of Oregon and worked at various local meat counters. A passion for justice and helping those in need led Bob to study law. As the Vietnam War unfolded, Bob was marching for peace and defending student protesters. He earned his undergraduate degree in 1958, and while raising his young family, he attended the University of Oregon School of Law, earning his law degree in 1963. Upon graduation, Bob started his own firm and was later joined by John DeWenter and Thomas Huntsberger, who became lifelong friends. He practiced for 44 years.
Bob’s moral compass guided both his career and his personal life. Whether he was in the streets, protesting war and inequality or defending the innocent in court, he consistently fought for what he thought was right. Education, he felt, could be the foundation of improving lives and the world at large. He was a fierce proponent of affordable education, which led him to the Board of Lane Community College, where he fought to keep tuition low. LCC honored his 50 years of service by dedicating the Robert Ackerman Tutorial Center in his name.
In 2001, Bob shifted from practicing law to politics when he was elected to the Oregon House of
Representatives, serving District 13. As a representative, Bob continued fighting for equality,
upholding policy over partisanship and prioritizing the needs of his constituents over popularity.
Bob was never afraid to cross the aisle. He made a name for himself as a smart problem solver
who could make deals work for both parties. Bob was respected for his integrity, honesty, and
empathy. He truly cared about people.
Bob chose to retire in 2007, when he turned 70. This gave him time to enjoy as many powder
days as possible, fish local rivers, garden, and have more time with his beloved wife, Linda.
Bob finally found lasting love when he met Linda; they married in 1992. Bob & Linda loved the
beaches of Hawaii, hiking the Alps, and visiting her family in Germany.
Bob cherished his loved ones. He was very proud of his son, Robert and his daughter, Louann. He kept his inner circle small, a loyal friend who preferred honest conversations to small
talk. He even opted to cut his own hair to avoid the barbershop chit-chat.
Bob cared deeply about the people and the issues closest to him. He loved and fought hard, always striving to make the world a little better—and he succeeded with landmark cases and policies. He never sought the spotlight for his accomplishments, preferring to work behind the scenes. All who knew Bob were motivated by his work ethic, inspired by his passion, and charmed by his whip-smart sense of humor. He improved the lives of so many, and his legacy will be one of enduring commitment to justice and public service.
Bob’s family is eternally grateful for his caregiver, Sandi, for her compassion, dedication and
humor. She made Bob’s last 15 months tolerable and knew all the lyrics to Willie Nelson songs.
A very special thanks goes to Cecilia, whose Pilates4Parkinson’s exercises helped him stay
stretched and comfortable. We are grateful to the nurses from Peace Health Hospice, Tonya
and Mackenzie, for their kindness, compassion and helpful advice. And for Bob’s brother, Ron,
who showed up every night to help with the evening routine. We couldn’t have done it without all
of you.
Robert is survived by his wife of 29 years, Linda; his daughter, Louann Harrack (Dan); son,
Robert Ackerman Jr. (Keala); stepson, Monte Matthews; sisters Maureen McGory, Laurie Levy,
and Sandy Dreweatt; brothers Ron Ackerman and Gerald Levy; grandchildren Andrea, Alex, and Nathaniel; and great-grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his parents; his sister Diane Trelstad and brother Larry Levy.
A celebration for Bob will be held this summer. Donations may be made to the LCC Foundation
