Dennis Raymond Van Acker

Dennis Raymond Van Acker of Ocean Springs, passed away Thursday, March 7, 2024 at the age of 77.

The Van Acker family moved in February of 1962 from McCord AFB in Tacoma, Washington to Biloxi, Mississippi. Dennis attended Biloxi High School where he played football and met his future wife, Rosemary Brochard. He graduated as a Biloxi Indian in 1964. He then attended MGCCC Perkinston campus and graduated from University of Southern Mississippi. Dennis served in the Army during the Vietnam War. He also worked in the first McDonalds in Biloxi and wore many other hats as a radio host, air traffic controller, boat dispatcher, casino dealer, photographer, and treasurer for the Knights of Columbus at St Alphonsus Catholic Church. Dennis never met a stranger, and anyone who met him could not forget his infectious smile. Although he touched countless lives during his time, the lives most important to him were his family. He was a devoted and loving father who enjoyed tailgating and supporting his USM Golden Eagles, boating, and attending concerts of the Razzoo Band and Vince Vance and the Valiants.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Christine Van Acker; and brother-in-law, Joe Cacibauda.

 He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Rosemary Van Acker. He leaves behind his son, Andrew Van Acker (Tiffany) and two stepsons, George Davis Jr (Alice) and Tim Davis (Jennifer). Dennis was the oldest of four children and is also survived by his brother, Chuck Van Acker (Kathi) and two sisters, Charlene Taylor (Frank) and Rose Cacibauda. Dennis was also a loving uncle to several nieces and nephews and a very proud grandfather of Lauren Davis, Parker Davis, Adelyne Davis, Isabella Van Acker, Nico Van Acker, Peyton Davis, Enzo Van Acker, and Richie Van Acker.

Dennis will be remembered for his friendly and outgoing personality, fun loving and easygoing nature, his sense of humor, and a love of socializing. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 11, 2024 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Friends may visit one hour prior. Burial will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Dennis Van Acker.