Theodore Roosevelt High School Class of 1959 - Latest News

Alan K. Ackley, 79, loving husband, father and grandfather, died unexpectedly at his home on December 24, 2020, in Des Moines, Iowa. Born July 2, 1941 in Des Moines, to Wayne and Karen Ackley, Alan attended Des Moines schools and graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1959. He attended Drake University with Linda Lou Haney. The two married in September 1964.

Alan had an enthusiasm for mechanical things - especially Braille machines. It was when Alan began work at the Iowa Department for the Blind in 1974 that he found his calling. His orientation training (wearing sleep shades as blinders the first few weeks) triggered Alan's passion for Braille and his lifelong interest in Braille machines. Alan even became a National Library Service-certified Braille Transcriber. In the mid-70s, Alan started Ackley Appliance Service (aka Braillerman), his own Perkins Brailler repair company. At the time of his passing, Alan had reconditioned thousands of Braillers for individuals, schools, and agencies in nearly every state.

Alan is survived by his son Steven Ackley (Elizabeth), granddaughters Madison and Sabrina Ackley, brother James (Donna) Ackley, sister-in-law Carolyn (James) Shaffer, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Karen and Wayne Ackley, his wife Linda Lou Ackley, his brother R. Steven Ackley, and his son David Alan Ackley.

A memorial service will be coordinated at a future date to celebrate Alan's life. Memorial contributions may be made to National Federation for the Blind (NFB).