OTEGO - Gerald C. Ackley, 95, of Otego and formerly of Franklin, passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2021.

Gerald was born on June 12, 1926, on the family farm at Leonta Corners, above Franklin, the son of the late Willias and Mary Ida (Jester) Ackley. Their farm was in the family for three generations.

Gerald was a successful farmer and was a member of the Eastern Milk Producers.

A graduate of Franklin Central School, he went by the nickname of "Happy Ackley." He also played trombone in the band and orchestra, and sang in the school choir.

He was also a member of the Franklin United Methodist Church and sang in the choir in previous years.

Gerald was a lifelong member of the Rolling Antiquers Old Car Club of Norwich and won many trophies with his antique cars.

After retiring from farming, he performed handyman work for people in Franklin for 22 years. In the fall of 2002, Gerald moved to Otego to help care for his sister. There, he enjoyed a well-kept home with a landscape of flowers.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Donald W. Ackley; and sister, Dorothea Kuppens.

He is survived by a nephew, Marty Ackley and his wife, Bonnie of Otego; niece, Sally Smith and her companion, Joyce Monroe of Georgia; and several great-nieces and cousins.

Friends are invited to greet the family from 10 to 11 a.m., Thursday, June 24, at Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home, 425 Main St., Franklin. Everyone will proceed to Ouleout Valley Cemetery, Franklin, where a graveside service will take place at 11 a.m.

Arrangements are by the Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home, Franklin.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.bennettfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations are asked to be made to the Otego Emergency Squad, 5 River St., Otego, NY 13825.