Ethan Ackerman Obituary: Clemson University student killed in freak tree accident on friend’s property

Ethan Alexander Ackerman, a 20-year-old Clemson University student from Anderson, SC, tragically passed away in a fatal accident.

According to the investigation, Ethan was assisting two friends, including the property owner, in clearing a large area of debris where several large trees had been uprooted. While working, one of the fallen trees unexpectedly sprang back into an upright position, trapping Ethan beneath its base.

Despite efforts by his friends, they were unable to free him from the massive tree. Ethan suffered blunt force trauma to the chest, resulting in traumatic asphyxiation. His death has been ruled accidental.

The Anderson County Office of the Coroner continues to investigate the incident.

Ethan Alexander Ackerman Obituary

Ethan Alexander Ackerman, born on July 24, 2004, to Rebecca and Stephen Ackerman of Anderson, SC, was a beloved son, brother, and friend. A 2022 graduate of Daniel High School, Ethan was a proud offensive lineman for the school’s back-to-back state championship football teams. He was a junior at Clemson University, pursuing a degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology with a minor in Forestry, and was passionate about a future in land management.

Ethan was the cornerstone of his family, known for his strength, both physical and emotional, which provided comfort to everyone who needed him. He shared a special bond with his grandfather, Granddad Ackerman, who was also his best friend. They greeted each other with the phrase, “You are a fine fella,” a tradition cherished by both.

In addition to his parents, Ethan is survived by a loving family, including his siblings Andy Thomas Ackerman (Jennica Kelm) and twin sister Ellen Patricia Ackerman (Corbin Lennon); his grandparents Mac and Patricia Ackerman; his aunts Shannan (Jimmy) Huggins, Beth (Robbie) Hinson, Terry (Phillip) Lee, Margaret Ackerman; his uncle John (Joni) Rickenbacker; 15 first cousins, and his beloved dog, Wesson, who will now be cared for by Ellen.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. John H. and Sue Ellen Rickenbacker, and his cousin, Phillip James Lee, Jr.

Ethan’s greatest gift to his family was his faith, symbolized by the Bible he kept on the dash of his truck, marked with an owl feather as his bookmark. He deeply loved the Lord and had a profound connection to nature. His life revolved around the outdoors—hunting, fishing, and working the land were his greatest passions. Camo, Carhartt, jeans, cowboy hats, and boots were his signature style, and his family invites all who attend his service to wear these items in his honor.

A celebration of Ethan’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 29, at 11 AM at Keowee Baptist Church, located at 544 Keowee Baptist Church Rd, Six Mile, SC. Pastors Phillip and Rick Lee, along with Pastor Jeff Stewart, will officiate the service.

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