Ronald William Acks

Ronald Williams Acks, 79, of Bailey’s Glen in Cornelius, North Carolina passed away on November 21, 2023.

Ron was born in Herrin, Illinois on October 3, 1944, to the late George William Acks and Marcia Jeanne (Brown) Acks. 

Ron is survived by his wife, Judith (Schumm) Acks, son, Jeffrey Reader, and wife, Holly Reader, his brother, Marty Acks, and his wife, Carine Acks. He was “Papa” to his only grandchild, Emily Reader, and her husband, Michael Humes. He was “Uncle Dad” to his niece, Shawn Haywood, and nephew, Shannon Parisot.

Besides being a much-loved husband, father, and grandfather, Ron was loved by scores of friends from grade school, and high school, where he was quarterback for the Carbondale, Illinois, Terriers, to his many collegiate and NFL teammates.

Ron’s accomplishments in high school football, two undefeated seasons, led to a winning college career at the University of Illinois where they won the Rose Bowl in 1964. From there he went on to play 11 years in the NFL. He was recruited in the 4th round by the Minnesota Vikings who traded him to the Atlanta Falcons. Following the Falcons, he went to the New England Patriots and completed his career with the Green Bay Packers.

Upon retiring from football, Ron became a successful businessman and salesman. He met his wife, Judy in Atlanta and they shared 40 wonderful years together.

Ron passed peacefully at home on Tuesday evening, November 21, 2023. He will be missed by so many. We will all cherish our fondest memories and the joy he brought to all he met.

Donations can be made in honor of Ron Acks to The Hospice and Palliative Care Lake Norman, where he received incredible and loving care.  https://www.viagiving.org/donating 

Raymer-Kemper Funeral Home is assisting the family. www.Kepnerfh.com

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 10th at 6:30 pm at Bailey’s Glen Clubhouse,12100 Meetinghouse Dr. Cornelius, NC 28031.