Judy Ann Rideout

Judy Ann Rideout, 84, of Bridgman, left this world on November 8, 2026 but her legacy and our memories of her live on. Judy Ann Bancroft was born on November 4, 1942 to the late Howard and Marie (O’Connor) Bancroft, the sixth of eight children. She grew up in Stevensville, MI where she was very athletic and cared for her younger sisters following the untimely passing of their mother.

Judy married Jim Ackerman of Bridgman in 1960 and together they had three children - James Michael, Joseph Howard, and Joann Marie. During this time, the family lived in both Nebraska and California following Jim’s station assignments in the United States Air Force.

When Jim deployed overseas, Judy and the children returned to Bridgman where they lived next door to Jim’s mother, the late Josephine Ackerman. Judy and Jo forged a special bond that persisted well past the dissolution of the marriage, until Josephine’s passing in 2007.

In 1978, Judy met Mark Rideout at work (Quality First Diecast formerly of Stevensville), romance ensued, and they remained devoted and inseparable for 48 years, until death parted them. They spent many years vacationing at Sandy Pines and driving their classic cars to shows around Michigan. The two gained grandchildren, Sierra and Grant, in the 1990s, who they provided for in myriad ways that we will be forever grateful for. A great-grandson, Cassidy, was welcomed in 2021. Judy was smitten with him. When Judy became disabled in her later years, Mark committed himself every day to keeping her at home and meeting her every want and need. You’ve never seen a man so devoted to his wife; he is truly unmatched.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Howard & Marie Bancroft; in-laws: Calvin & June Rideout, Chalmer Ackerman, and Josephine Ackerman; and siblings: William Bancroft, Charles Bancroft, and Mary Taylor. She missed her mother deeply and was especially thankful for her surrogate moms, Josephine and June.

Judy is survived by her devoted husband, Mark; children: Jim Ackerman, Joe Ackerman, and Joann Stone; grandchildren: Sierra (Jordan) Sharpe and Grant (Kinsey Tekiele) Stone; great-grandson, Cassidy Sharpe; siblings: Robert (Shirley) Bancroft, Tom Bancroft, Susan Bancroft, and Linda (the late Gary) Curtis; siblings-in-law: Mike (Anne) Rideout, Christy Moore, and Cindy (David) McCallister; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Judy was known for her fierce dedication to her children and grandchildren, loving devotion to her husband, and insurmountable work ethic. She enjoyed watching the Tigers and Cubs play, cultivating her garden, being around animals, and listening to The King. Nothing brought her more joy or peace than being surrounded by her loved ones.

Per her wishes, Judy’s family will hold a private celebration of life. Judy will be cremated and interred at Graceland Cemetery in Bridgman. We are comforted knowing she’s at peace. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy., Bridgman.