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Obituaries

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Alan Ackerman ’68

February 23, 2023, in Berkeley, California, after a three-year struggle with dementia.

Alan was born in Des Moines, Iowa, February 8, 1947, and grew up in Texas. He graduated from Reed with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, writing his thesis on “Valuations and the P-Adic Numbers,” advised by Prof. Joe Roberts [mathematics 1952–]. He completed a master’s in mathematics at Berkeley and UC Santa Cruz.

Alan lived in Berkeley for 52 years, working as a computer programmer for various companies. It’s where he met his wife, Betsy St. Aubin; they married in 1983. Alan was a nature enthusiast. Weekend hikes and family camping trips were cherished experiences, and he was a wonderful wildflower photographer. Alan loved reading, particularly natural science books and mysteries. He also enjoyed music and dance; he was an exuberant English and Scottish country dancer, a longtime member of the SF Folk Music Club, and singing was his greatest delight.

Alan adored being a father and grandfather. His loved ones will always remember his beautiful smile.

Alan is survived by his wife, Betsy; daughters Clara Ackerman and Esther Ackerman; brother, George Ackerman; and grandsons, Calvin and Sasha Manshardt.

Appeared in Reed magazine: Fall 2023