NEW UNDERWOOD - Alvin T. Ackerman, 95, New Underwood, passed away Thursday, February 23, 2012, at Rapid City Regional Hospital Hospice of the Hills.

Alvin was born on February 12, 1917, at Artas, S.D. to Calvin and Katherina (Orth) Ackerman. He attended rural schools in Artas. Alvin joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and served during WWII. He was honorably discharged in 1945.

He married Alice Speidel on December 15, 1946, at Herreid, S.D. He worked in civil service for the U.S. government for 33 years, retiring in 1979.

He was a member of the New Underwood Community Church and the American Legion.

Alvin enjoyed fishing and gardening. He also enjoyed painting houses and mowing lawns for the residents of New Underwood when he first retired.

Survivors include his daughter, Karen (Rodney) Julius, New Underwood, S.D.; his son, James (Janice) Ackerman, Rapid City; sisters, Esther Delzer, and Kathy Dahlin, both of Eureka, S.D.; and one grandchild, Curtis Julius.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; two infant daughters; three brothers; and two sisters.

A memorial has been established.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the New Underwood Community Church.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 28, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the New Underwood Community Church with Rev. Wes Wileman officiating. Burial will follow in the New Underwood Cemetery with American Legion Post 256 providing military honors.

Family and friends may sign Alvin's online guestbook at www.kirkfuneralhome.com.