Nels Ackerson

Nels Ackerson, a distinguished American attorney and advocate for property rights, passed away on March 18, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 12, 1944, in Eagletown, Indiana, Nels was the son of a farmer and a teacher, and the grandson of Swedish immigrants. He grew up on his family's dairy farm in Westfield, Indiana, where he attended Westfield public schools, actively participated in 4-H and other youth organizations, and graduated as class president and valedictorian.
Nels pursued higher education at Purdue University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with distinction in Agricultural Economics. During his time at Purdue, he served as student body president and was honored with the G. A. Ross Award as the most outstanding male graduate. He was also a member of the FarmHouse fraternity, the Purdue Glee Club and held the position of Indiana State President of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) during his freshman year. In his sophomore year, Nels was elected National FFA President, a role in which he presided over the desegregation of the FFA and the New Farmers of America (NFA), marking a significant step toward inclusivity in agricultural organizations.
Continuing his academic journey, Nels earned a Juris Doctor degree with distinction from Harvard Law School, where he served as an editor of the Harvard Law Review. He also obtained a Master in Public Policy from Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government, as part of the inaugural class of the joint degree program.
Nels's legal career was both diverse and impactful. He began practicing law at Barnes, Hickam, Pantzer & Boyd in Indianapolis, later serving as Chief Counsel and Executive Director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on the Constitution under Senator Birch Bayh. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in legislative efforts such as the Equal Rights Amendment and the proposed Direct Election Amendment to abolish the Electoral College. Nels also contributed to the development of biofuel incentives and co-authored the Bayh–Dole Act, which allowed universities and small businesses to patent inventions arising from federally funded research, thereby fostering innovation and economic growth.
Demonstrating a global perspective, Nels established the first American law firm office in Egypt in 1982, partnering with distinguished Egyptian lawyer Gamal Naguib to form Sidley & Austin & Naguib. He was a founding member and president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt and served on the board of the Bilateral Fulbright Commission, reflecting his commitment to international development and cooperation.
In 1991, Nels founded his own law firm, Ackerson Kauffman Fex, which gained recognition for successfully litigating on behalf of property owners in eminent domain and property rights cases across the United States. His firm's landmark cases were featured in prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, underscoring his dedication to justice and the protection of individual rights.
Nels's contributions to agriculture and law were acknowledged by Purdue University, which honored him as a distinguished alumnus and conferred upon him an honorary Doctor of Agriculture degree, citing his "legal accomplishments that will have lasting impact on landowner rights."
Upon retirement, he found great joy in spending time with his family at their home on Longboat Key, Florida. Whether walking along the white sandy beaches, enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, or hosting family gatherings filled with laughter and love, Longboat Key was a cherished retreat where he created many lasting memories with his loved ones.
A devout Christian, Nels was a member of St. Andrew United Methodist Church. He enjoyed singing in their choir. For the past six years, he resided in West Lafayette, Indiana, at University Place, a senior living community.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon. Nels is survived by his four children, their spouses and nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, niece, nephew, and their spouses and children. His legacy as a devoted family man, a passionate advocate for justice, and a pioneer in both national and international legal arenas will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Purdue Foundation, reflecting Nels's lifelong commitment to his alma mater.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11 a.m., Friday, March 21, 2025, at St. Andrew's United Methodist Church with Rev. Wellington Chiomadzi officiating.
Interment will be at 2 p.m., Friday, March 21, 2025, at Summit Cemetery in Westfield.
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