Alton B. Acker

Bear knew how much I appreciated his ability to make beautiful furniture. So he made us a solid cherry cannon ball cradle for our first born, which we used for our children and our grandchildren. And it resides in one of our bedrooms for the rest of my life!

Bear and I were close friends. He knew me as a hunter and introduced me to shooting smoke poles. Bear made me my possibles bag and accompanied me on my first black powder deer hunt. I started with a smooth bore and he helped me convert it to a rifle when that was allowed. I never go with my smoke pole without fond memories of my friend Bear!

I have nice memories of Bear, both playing with and watching him play music. He took over for me on "left handed" bass many years ago in the Thunder Mountain Bluegrass band. God's consolations and my sincere condolences to Tina and his family. Rest in peace Bear "when the golden leaves are on the ground."

I'm so saddened to read of Bear's passing. He was a wonderful man and married a wonderful women. Tina I know things will never be the same but I hope you can find peace with the help of your memories and your beautiful family.

We knew Bear as a father and educator who changed hundreds and more lives through vocational education and thrilled audiences with his music. We wish peace and serenity for the family of this outstanding individual.

I was deeply saddened to read of Bear´s passing yesterday. The piece in the paper was spot on about his support and encouragement to us "young bucks" as we set off on our careers, confident in the skills and knowledge that we actually didn´t have. Giving a suggestion, or making a point, he was never condescending, if a bit long winded! I think it was for my 40th birthday, or thereabouts, that Esther conspired with Bear and Kevin in our shop to make the stand shown below. I had gotten...

My love to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss and am praying for your heart to heal.

I met Bear in his last year of life at his family's tag sale. When I overheard him talking about his shop, I asked him what he makes. He replied he was a luthier. I then asked if he would show me his work space. He graciously invited me for a tour. Bear offered me an opportunity to play some of his guitars. I loved the sound and sustain of his maple guitar so my wife purchased it for me that day. That was the beginning of a great friendship that included coffee, breakfast and...