Richard Ackner

BAKERSVILLE - Richard "Rich" Ackner, 84, passed away Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at the home of his daughter in Hendersonville.
Born Dec. 3, 1941, in Troy, New York, he was the son of the late Harry William and Ida Mae Lobdell Ackner. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Harry Ackner.
Rich was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church. Early in his working career he worked in his family-owned business, Ackner Fuels. He went on to be employed by Johnson Controls and Siemans as a senior engineer salesman.
He enjoyed reading and discussing the Bible and working puzzles. He also enjoyed drinking coffee in the morning from his front porch taking in the scenery of the mountains of Mitchell County. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. With his family, he enjoyed taking trips to the beach at Emerald Isle.
Left to cherish his memories is his wife, of 61 years, Carol Ann Keller Ackner; daughters; Cyndi Smith and Vikki Conner; son; Reade (Mollie) Ackner; grandchildren; Moses Leavell, Miriam (Will) Brock, Grace and Abi Conner and Owen and Aaron Ackner; and his first great-grandbaby, due in April to Miriam and Will, Dutton Richard Brock.
Private graveside services and burial were held Monday, Feb. 9, at the Bear Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Rev. Chris Rathbone officiated.
Mr. Ackner's arrangements have been entrusted to Beam Funeral Service in Marion.