Leona H. Ackerman, age 98 of Stanwood passed away Thursday, November 6, 2008 in Big Rapids. She was born on February 15, 1910. She lived in the Stanwood area all her life. Leona was a teacher in several one room schools for 12 years and then for the remaining 21 years, she was a fourth grade teacher at Stanwood Elementary. She retired in 1974. Leona married Glen Ackerman on July 27, 1940 and they had two daughters. She was a farmer's wife along with her teaching. She was active in many women's clubs such as the Merry Wives and the Extension Club and was 4-H leader for ten years. Leona loved learning new things and was especially interested in art, birds and weather. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Nyle Staffen of Wetmore, MI; four grandchildren, Doug and Vickie Staffen, Darcy and Rob Dame, Kristine Shreve and Nicole and Brian Atkinson; seven great-grandchildren, Nathan and Alex Staffen, Josh and Madisyn Dame, Taylor, Bradley and Brendan Atkinson and son-in-law, Thad Fosgitt; a very special sister, Lois Eldred of White Cloud and many nieces and nephews. Leona was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Bertha Meyer; husband, Glen; a daughter, Glenda Fosgitt; two sisters and three brothers. Memorial services will take place at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 14th at the Northland United Methodist Church in Stanwood with Reverend Dominic Tommy officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to services. Memorial contributions in Leona's name may be given to the Northland United Methodist Church. Arrangements are entrusted to the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids.