Curtis E. Ackerlind, Jr. went to the "Big Hanger in the Sky" on July 31, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born November 1, 1929, to Curtis E. Ackerlind and Cleo Despain Ackerlind. He loved sharing stories of his adventures growing up on the avenues and summers spent working on his grandparent's farm at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon. After graduating from East High School in 1947, he attended the University of Utah graduating in 1951 with a B.S. in Marketing and minor in Economics. He served as president of Sigma Pi Fraternity and was in the ROTC.Upon graduation, he received his commission as Captain in the Air Force and began flight training. He was an accomplished pilot flying C-119's (the flying boxcar) during the Korean War. He married Betty Gardner and later divorced.
After leaving the Air Force he entered the insurance business, specializing in aviation insurance, and continued to fly with the Reserves at Hill Air Force Base. He married Myrna Petranovich in 1964 and they had one daughter, Stacy.Later he and Myrna divorced. He was always a pilot at heart and loved nothing more than to fly or be involved with aviation.He also loved his community and giving to others.He was instrumental in forming the Utah Pilot's Association, served on the Travel Commission and the Airport Authority Board, Salt Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Board and the Board of KUED. After retirement, Curt continued to outreach to people and loved sharing his "Retired: Every day isSaturday" business card.
Curt is survived by his daughter Stacy, her husband Brian McPherson, grandson Ethan, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his only sibling Margo Ackerlind Peterson. During his final weeks, he reflected on his life, made peace with himself and others all while keeping his sharp wit. Services for Curt will be held onSaturday, August 4.Friends may call from9:30 to 10:30at Larkin Mortuary (260 E. South Temple).Graveside service to follow at11:00 a.m.at the Salt Lake City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary or to the Moran Eye Center.
