Bowdoinham-John Ackley, 73, passed away at home after a long illness on Dec. 12, 2011.

He was born June 22, 1938, the son of George and M. Evelyn Ackley.

A lifelong resident of Bowdoinham, he attended Bowdoinham schools and served with the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1962 which included a tour of duty in Korea. He was a Past Master and 43 year member of Village Lodge # 26., A.F.&A.M.

He worked with his father in the contracting business for many years before joining the Sagadahoc Sheriff Dept in 1978 where he served as a Deputy Sheriff and Chief Deputy until his retirement in 2000.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping in the Moosehead Lake region.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Marlene Ackley; a son, Scott Ackley and wife, Stephanie, of Freeport; a step-son, Larry Young and wife, Rose, of Bowdoin; a step-daughter, Holly Fournier and husband, Tom, of Bowdoinham; a grandson, Joshua Ackley; a granddaughter, Mackenzie Ackley; a brother, Robert Ackley, and wife Anne of Topsham; a nephew, Michael Ackley, of Topsham; 5 step-grandchildren, Jennifer Wienckowski, Michelle Keleher, and Angela Caldwell of Bowdoin; Marcie Fournier of Boston; and Seth Fournier of Biddeford; 4 step-great-grandchildren, Taylor, Hayden, Tarynn, and Sidney and several cousins.

The family would like to thank friends, family, Dr.John McGeough, Dr. David Benton, Midcoast Hospital, Bodwell Rehab, and CHANS Hospice and Private Duty Home Health Care for their care and support.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 1 to 4pm at the Bowdoinham Fire Station 57 Post Rd. Bowdoinham.

Donations may be made to the Bowdoinham Fire Dept.

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home 130 Pleasant St. Richmond, Me 04357.