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Obituaries: Ackerman; Hughes; Reid; Tomlinson

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Ronald Edward Ackerman

Ronald Edward Ackerman: 1932 – 2025

Ronald Edward Ackerman, affectionately known as Ron, was born on November 12, 1932, in Huntington Park, California. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 13, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he received kind and compassionate care from the dedicated staff.

A proud veteran, Ron served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was stationed in a transportation unit and spent a commendable year and three months in a combat zone, where he performed his duties with honor, earning several accolades including the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Korea Unit Citation, and the US Army Good Conduct Medal. Ron’s military service was a significant chapter in his life, reflecting his commitment to his country.

Following his honorable discharge, Ron began a long and fulfilling career as a driver and a dedicated member of the Teamsters at Smart & Final Iris, where he worked for over 42 years. His impressive work ethic and dedication shone through in his driving record, logging thousands of miles without a single ticket or accident—a testament to his professionalism and skill.

Ron was a gregarious man, known for his love of interacting with people. His personality left a lasting impact on everyone he met. A dedicated family man, he cherished his wife, Carol Ackerman, whom he lovingly accompanied for 72 years, as well as his daughter Robyn A. Haifley. He took immense pride in his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, creating cherished memories with his family. Visions of trips to the “donut shop” and warm “kisses on top of the head” will remain fondly in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Ron developed a friendly greeting for everyone with his signature “fist bump.” In his later years, Ron was known for his friendly greetings and earnest interest in others’ lives, making the simple “fist bump” a signature of his warmth and kindness. His nickname, “Yackty Ack,” was affectionately given by over-the-road truck drivers, who admired his love for storytelling.

Ron enjoyed many hobbies, most notably his passion for horses and horseback riding. He proudly owned and operated a small ranch in Bend, Oregon, which brought him great joy. He took pleasure in tinkering with projects in his shop, visiting hardware stores for small items, and dedicating over twenty-five years to volunteer service at the Sisters Rodeo in Sisters, Oregon. A lifelong member of the Elks and VFW, he actively participated in countless charitable programs.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Ackerman; his daughter, Robyn A. Haifley; four grandchildren: Jason Kelley, Brianna Pribbeno, Amber Morasse, and Adam Morasse; and four great-grandchildren: Phoenix Kelley, Pearl Pribbeno, Prairie Pribbeno, and Cash Kelley. He was predeceased by his cherished daughter, Rhonda Morasse, in 2017.

Ronald Edward Ackerman will be remembered not only for his accomplishments and service but for the genuine love he shared with his family and friends. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and warmth will continue to resonate in all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 


Douglas Dean Hughes: 1951 – 2024

On Dec 27, 2024, beloved husband, Doug Hughes, at the age of 73, went to be with the lord. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, July 24, 1951.

Doug’s greatest joy was writing for and singing to the lord. He sang and played bass guitar. At one time, he traveled and lead worship with an evangelistic group out of Iowa. After that, he was a member of worship teams in several churches, the most recent at Cheyenne Hills.

He met and married Susan, “the love of his life,” in 1990 in Phoenix. They moved to Denver in 1992, then to Cheyenne in 2014.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan (Lindsey/McCoy); stepsons, Jeff Lindsey (Jenny), Conor McCoy and daughter, Trisha Hughes; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild; sister, Marla Carnahan of Springfield, Iowa; brothers: David Hughes, Donnie Hughes and Rick Robertson of Phoenix, Arizona.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 1, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Barn at Cheyenne Hills Church, 7505 US Highway 30.


Thomas Earl Reid: 1949 – 2025

Thomas (Tom) Earl Reid, born on January 25, 1949, in Youngstown Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on January 22, 2025, just days shy of his 76th birthday. 

Tom proudly served his country for 20 years as a member of the United States Air Force, including service during the Vietnam War. Over the course of his military career, he held various roles such as recruiter and military police officer. However, his most cherished position was as a dog handler, a role that brought him immense pride and fulfillment. 

Tom went on to enjoy a rewarding career with the State of Wyoming for another 20 years, retiring from his position as Investigator for the Real Estate Commission and Appraiser Board. However, he didn’t “retire” for long as he soon began working as a Marshall for the Federal District Court for several years, then moving on to serve as a Bailiff for the Laramie County District Court. Tom took great pride in all of his roles and enjoyed the many friends he made along the way.

A devoted husband and father, Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife, JoAnn of 22 years and his four children: Bryan (Leanne), Tim, Daniel (Anna), and Allison (Alex). He was also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Natalee, Lillian, Jolie, Grayson and Everly, who brought great joy to his life. 

Beyond his military service and many careers, Tom was deeply involved in his community. He was a dedicated member of the CFD Concessions committee volunteering for over 20 years. One of his proudest moments was when he made HEEL, in 2013. In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching Denver Broncos games, “taking care of the dogs” and spending time with friends and family. 

To honor Tom’s wishes, no services are planned at this time.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received since Tom’s passing. He will be missed by many. Our hope is to gather at a later date to celebrate Tom and share stories of this amazing man.

May the memory of Tom Reid bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a testament to a life well-lived.


Barbara Ann Tomlinson: d. 2025

Barbara Ann Walderman Tomlinson, 64, passed away on January 8, 2025, surrounded by her closest family. She was born in Glen Cove, New York to terrific parents, Theodore and Victoria Walderman, and grew up in Syosset, Long Island, New York. Her sister, Carol, remained her best friend throughout her life. Their cousin, Nancy, lived across the street and became the middle sister of their close-knit family.

 She was a graduate of Adelphi University where she worked at a library with her lifelong friend Linda. She attained her dream of working on wall street. Throughout her career she was also a paralegal, bond broker, executive assistant and retired as the financial officer for the Wyoming Public Service Commission.

 Barbara married David Tomlinson in 2008 at Good Samaritan Lutheran Church in Las Vegas where they met. Their love for each other was immeasurable and were truly two peas in a pod. They lived in Las Vegas, Nevada; Nashville, Tennessee and Cheyenne, Wyoming. They enjoyed many adventures together during their marriage.

 She loved to cook, sew, knit, crochet, and travel with family and friends, especially to the beach. She went on several cruises, and made frequent trips to Mexico and Florida. Barbara explored Europe, including Finland, where her father’s family was from when she worked in London.

 Barbara was full of adventure and made friends wherever she went. Her greatest pleasure was to be on the beach hanging out with friends and family. She also loved America and was very patriotic.

 Barbara always trusted God. Her favorite bible verse was Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV):

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

Barbara is survived by her husband, David; sister, Carol Cituk; and nephew, Stephen (Las Vegas); cousin/sister, Nancy (John) their son, Scott (Syosset, New York); and many cousins.

 Barbara was welcomed into heaven by her parents; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Church of the Holy Trinity, 1808 Hot Springs Avenue, Cheyenne, Wyoming, on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at Cheyenne National Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to United Service Organizations (USO), Black Dog Animal Rescue, or a charity of your choice.


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