Barbara Jean (Giese) Ackley

Barbara J. Ackley, 89, of the Lake Geneva area passed away at her home surrounded by her family on October 3, 2024.

Barbara was born on February 7, 1935, to the late Edward and Margaret Giese in Dixon, Illinois.  In 1954 Barbara was united into marriage to the late Donald Ackley.

To sum up Barbara’s life within a paragraph just isn’t possible.  To say that she lived the life that most of us dreamed about is an understatement.  Barbara was a playboy bunny when the Playboy club was in Lake Geneva.  She was a housekeeper for the late Al Capone when he had a house on Lake Como.  Barabara was a fantastic gardener, and accomplished sewer and an amazing baker.  Barbara was a snowbird and loved to go camping.  When Barbara was telling stories the one, she was most proud of, was when she would tell the story of hoping on the back of a Harley in the 50’s and setting out to Yellowstone National Park.

Barbara is survived by one child: Sherrie (Bob) Richard and three grandchildren: Justin (Tracy) Woods, Kurt (Tabetha) Richard, and Romana (Shy) Greer. Nine great-grandchildren and one sister Sharon also survive Barbara.  Barbara was proceeded in death by her parents, Edward and Margaret: one child Sheila; and five siblings: Eddie, Jimmy, Ronnie, Mary, and Patty.

Services for Barbara will be held on Friday October 11th, 2024, at 12:00pm in the main chapel of Derrick Funeral Home, Pastor Bob Kamp’s will be presiding.  Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on October 11th, from 10:00am till the time of service.  Burial will immediately follow the services at Oakhill Cemetery.

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Derrick Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Ackley family.