The man credited with turning Crete Carrier into one of the nation’s largest trucking companies passed away over the weekend.
Crete chairman Duane Acklie died on Saturday at the age of 84 from complications from various health issues.
Acklie began his career with Crete in 1966 when he became the company’s attorney. At that time, the company used six leased trucks to haul dog food from a plant in Crete, Illinois.
Acklie purchased the company in 1973. At that time, Crete had about 100 employees, 100 trucks, and about $6 million in revenue. Acklie later moved Crete’s headquarters to Lincoln, Nebraska.
At the end of last year, Crete employed about 5000 truck drivers and 1000 office employees. It also has around 5000 trucks, 13,000 trailers, and has over $1 billion in revenue.
In addition to his work with Crete, Acklie was also active in the Republican party, acting as a prominent GOP fundraiser and an advisor for both Bush presidents. He was also a member of the board of the American Trucking Association.
Acklie’s son in law, Tonn Ostergard, is Crete’s current CEO. Acklie is survived by his wife, Phyllis. They were married for 62 years.
We have lost a great Nebraskan. Our prayers to Phyllis and the Acklie family. https://t.co/Ilymq8bzkp via @owhnews
— Beau McCoy (@BeauRMcCoy) September 18, 2016
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