Duane Acklie, chairman of Crete, passes at 84

Updated Sep 19, 2016
Duane AcklieDuane Acklie

The man who for years led what would become one of the largest privately-held trucking companies in the U.S. died Saturday afternoon.

Duane Acklie, who was chairman of Crete Carriers Corp., died in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was 84.

Tonn Ostergard, president and CEO of Crete and Mr. Acklie’s son-in-law, posted this on Crete’s Facebook page:

“It is with sorrow and reverence I share with you Duane Acklie peacefully passed away this afternoon, September 17, 2016 at 3:55. While it is a time to mourn and shed a tear, it is also a time to honor and recognize a life lived to the fullest. A life filled with accomplishments and contributions, leaving a lasting legacy impacting so many people past, present and in the years ahead. Duane had a motto, “Always Be A Country Boy.” This spoke to Duane’s values of treating everyone with dignity and respect. And while Duane advised Presidents and was regarded as one of the most influential business leaders in the country, he never forgot his roots as a farm boy from Madison County. Duane loved all of our employees, but there was no doubt he had a special place in his heart for our drivers. So, take time to shed a tear and mourn his loss , but quickly replace that sorrow with the joy of a life well lived. Thank you, Duane.”

The Omaha World-Herald posted a story about Mr. Acklie online, and reports the funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 at the First-Plymouth Church in Lincoln.

A number of elected officials reacted to the death of Mr. Acklie, who had been active in Republican politics for many years. The World-Herald quotes Sen. Deb Fischer:

“Duane Acklie was a loving husband, a caring father, and a successful businessman who built a business from the ground up. He loved his state, and he was an active member of his community. I was fortunate to have Duane as a longtime friend; I will miss him dearly.”