Kassandra Ackerman, née Dill, a radiant beam of creativity and laughter, left us too soon on July 1, 2024. Born on October 15, 1993, Kassandra’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of compassion, kindness, humor, and resilience. A living testament to Albert Schweitzer’s words, “sometimes our light goes out, but is blown again into instant flame by an encounter with another human being”. Kassandra was a flame spreading brightness, even at the end. She never missed an opportunity to compliment somebody or make them feel special, whether she knew them or not. Her resilient spirit shone through every challenge she faced.
A native of Gun Lake, Kassandra made her home in Wyoming, Michigan, where she shared her life with her beloved husband, Cole Ackerman. Friends in elementary school, dating at 18, and married on February 21, 2019. As a dedicated picker in the distribution industry, Kassandra brought her unique touch to every aspect of her work. She was quick to earn the love of her coworkers through her great sense of humor and uplifting spirit. She found joy in scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, and painting – each piece a reflection of her creative soul. With a voracious love for video games and Dungeons & Dragons, Kassandra had an infectious ability to turn any gathering into an adventure, her humor and quick wit making her a cherished companion. Kassandra’s light also shone brightly in the theater. Her acting prowess earned her several awards, and was a great passion of hers. Kassandra brought that talent to her role playing in Dungeons & Dragons and to the many voices she would use to entertain people. She made certain that laughter was never in short supply.
Kassandra is survived by her devoted husband, Cole Ackerman; her mother, Kari Johnson; her stepfather, Terry Johnson; her sisters, Anna Hooker and Krissy Greiner; her grandma Nancy Hicks Durkee; her brother-in-law, Tony Ackerman; her sister in-law Amelia Ackerman-Burke; her mother-in-law, Margie Holzgen; her father-in-law Troy Ackerman; and a huge circle of friends. She was preceded in death by her father, David Dill; and her grandparents, Patricia and Donald Dill.
Kassandra’s life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and the human spirit. As we remember her, let us strive to embody the qualities she so beautifully showcased: compassion, Kindness, creativity, humor, and resilience. As we celebrate Kassandra’s life, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos of her on the memorial page. Let us keep her spirit alive in our hearts and minds, forever embracing the joy and laughter she brought into our world.
Please join us for a celebration of life in Kassandra’s honor on Saturday, July 13th, at the John Ball Hilltop Pavilion from 11am-3pm. It is open to the public and Kassandra would love for everyone who cared for her to stop by and share in our fond memories of her.