About Us SOS: Al Ackley
Stories of Service: Al AckleyWritten by Pastor Bruce Westphal
Al Ackley and I are the same age. How old that is remains for you to figure out. But when it comes to volunteer discipleship and community involvement in one’s retirement, he leaves me in the dust.
Born in Pigeon Falls, WI, Al spent his career as a medical instrument field engineer traveling a six state area instructing on and fixing such things as dialysis machines. About thirty years back Al was divorced and rather than just withdrawing he became an active leader in church and community and he has never turned back.
At Westwood, on his own initiative, Al has organized two groups. First, the Sunday Single’s Brunch (SSB), an informal group of “older” single adults meeting every Sunday after worship at an area restaurant. And as an Army veteran he has organized an annual Veteran’s Day program honoring our vets. Both of these groups are open to not just Westwood members but to the entire community. Within our congregation Al serves on an usher team, is a reliable volunteer for the quarterly “Come As You Are” event, and offers transportation to several who would otherwise to be unable to participate.
In his community Al is active in his condo association where among other things he organizes an annual National Night Out event. He is also a regular in programs at Mindeskirchen. Back when he was divorced he joined Single Parent Christian Fellowship, an activity and support organization in which he is still involved.
To meet Al is to meet a gracious, welcoming, positive man who exemplifies his Christian faith in action, responding to Christ’s call to serve in the world where he lives. Thanks Al.
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