Russell E. Ackroyd

Russell E. Ackroyd, 74 CARLSBAD -- Russell E. Ackroyd, 74, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2008. He was born on July 18, 1933, in Los Angeles. Russell attended the University of Minnesota, where he received his Bachelors of Mechanical Engineering Degree. He was a mechanical engineer in the following areas: Defense, medical, manufacturing and water treatment. Russell was in the US Navy Reserve from 1953 to 1960 and received a national defense award. He was also a member of the American Legion Oceanside Post 146. Russell enjoyed being with his wife and family, fishing, sailing, gardening, traveling, bird watching and golf. He was known as the "fix-it" man. One of his co-workers often said that if there was a problem at work or at home, and it needed a solution, just ask Ackroyd. He loved all animals, and was always encouraging others to help preserve our planet, Earth, for our children and grandchildren. He was a man of integrity and high moral standards, which he instilled in his family. Russell is survived by his wife, whom he married in 1958, Sharon Ackroyd of Carlsbad; brother, Albert E. Ackroyd of Hermosa Beach; children, Linda (Terence) D'Souza, Jeffrey Ackroyd, Lori Ackroyd, Steven Ackroyd, Betsy (Stacy) Kuchta and Carrie (Charles) Purgett; grandchildren, Sarah D'Souza, Crystal D'Souza, Ashley Ford, Kayla Ford, Tyler Ford, Chelsae Ford and Julian Russell Ackroyd. He is also survived by extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Cyril Ackroyd; mother, Helen R. Learn and stepfather, Jim Learn. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, at Eternal Hills Mortuary in Oceanside. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that thoughtful donations be made to The Elizabeth Hospice, 150 W. Crest St., Escondido, Calif. 92025. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com