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Nels John “Papa John” Akerlund, 80, went to be with his Lord and savior August 29, 2025. He was a Rockford native and was the son of Nels and Florence Akerlund. John was a graduate of East High School, and Iowa State University where he received a degree in landscape architecture. John was an Army veteran and served in Vietnam. This experience deepened his profound commitment to serve others.
John married Betty in November of 1968. They shared 56 years together full of love and commitment to each other. John and Betty founded Ack Ack Nursery (est. 1993). He was a cherished member of New Horizons Church of Northern Illinois. His sense of humor was infectious, inviting, and warm. His “rusty filter” could make anyone laugh regardless of the circumstances. John passionately loved musky fishing. For over 40 years he was the ringleader on annual fishing trips to Northern Wisconsin for both his family, and church group. He loved sharing his skills on the grill, and he could make the best hamburgers in the world. He loved unconditionally, and served humbly. His caring heart welcomed others, but also brought others together. His wonderful sense of creativity allowed him to think outside the box. With guidance from others, his ideas were often articulated and put into action.
He is survived by his wife, Betty, sons, Eric (Nicole) Akerlund, and Tom (Stacey) Akerlund, grandchildren, Alyssa, Christopher, Kaylee, Sadie, Anden, and Essie Akerlund, sister, Karen, and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. John has joined his parents, and siblings, David, Debra, and Dan, to rest with their Father.
The family asks for privacy right now. There will be a celebration of life at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made to New Horizons Church of Northern IL, PO Box 22, Roscoe, IL 61073 or The Greg Lindmark Foundation, PO Box 91, Roscoe, IL 61073. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.olsonfh.com <http://www.olsonfh.com/>.
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Nestor White
It was great to visit with John and Betty at our 80th birthday bash. I took several photos and will get them posted soon...I primise. John's parents were friends with my Mom and Dad since high school days in the 1930's. His mother Florence was a nurse and the sister of one of our families best friends, Fran and Earl Sanders.
We were friends at East and we shared a passion for plants. Among other things, I run a hobby nursery and have sold to 65 different countries having the world's largest collections of two different types of bulbs. John's personality was such that he made friends easily and he was a man true to his word.
Everyone that knew him shares Betty's and the families loss. Again, it's a reminder of how fragile and short life can be. Cherish those dear and count every day as a blessing from God.
Nestor White
Paul Knopp
What a shock to hear of John's passing after having just visited with him.
We met in Kindergarten at Hallstrom School. John, Joanne Rehnberg, Louise Pell and I remained friends thru High School and beyond. It saddens me greatly that three (3) of our group are now gone. Many great memories and laughs together.
I did business with all three (3) of the Akerlund Brothers and feel fortunate to have had the privilege. Forthright, trustworthy and business done with a handshake. What a memory!
John's humorous side came thru the first time I met him and was always appreciated and will never be forgotten. He entertained our classes on many occasions.
Those of us who attended the 80th Birthday celebration may feel fortunate to have visited with John and Betty so close to his passing. Except for a bit of age, not much seemed to have changed. Same smile and happy-go-lucky attitude, despite an uncertain future.
God Bless you, friend, and may you rest in peace with a smile on your lips. Keep them laughing upstairs.
Paul Knopp.
Jim Ramsey
I remember John well from HS. He was liked by all and simply an all around nice guy. Having moved from Rockford years ago, I've not been in contact with many of my classmates.
it was nice to read Nestor's and Paul's comments....both Paul & Nestor were well thought of in HS which adds so much credibility to their comments re John. When you vision John in your mind, you simply smile...that's the kind of guy he was.
Jim Ramsey