Gordon "Andy" Acker, age 79 of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2007. Andy was born April 6, 1928 to Harold and Emma (Friebel) Acker in the house his father built on his grandfather's property. He graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1946. Andy joined the National Guards and served in Company E for nine years. He married Donna Jean Borstler on October 30, 1954. Andy began his working career at Consumers Power, where he was employed for nine years. He then went to work as an agent for the Standard Oil Company. He purchased the distributorship and plant in 1975 and established the Acker Oil Company, retiring in 1990. Andy had been an avid hunter and fisherman his entire life. During retirement he continued to develop his interest in harness racing. In addition to owning and breeding horses, he was also involved in their training. Andy's horses were raced at many tracks including Swartz Creek and Hazel Park. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Donna J. Acker of Big Rapids A daughter; Karen (Keith) Maxey of Rochester Hills Two sisters; Geraldine "Gerry" (Edward) Bloxsom and Grace (Tom) Bloxsom of Traverse City and many nieces and nephews. Andy was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, George Acker. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 10th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor John Bookshaw officiating. The family will greet friends on Sunday at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services on Monday. Memorial contributions in Andy's name may be made to either the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.