Gladys B. Acker

The youngest of eleven children, she was born on a farm to Norwegian immigrant parents, Olga and Mikkel Loken, near Bristol, SD, January 17, 1915. She graduated from High School in Pierpont, SD, and attended beauty school in Fargo, ND. With her sister, she opened a beauty shop and clothing shop in Hillsboro, ND, where she met her husband Robert Acker. They were united in marriage on December 23, 1934, in Moorhead, MN. Over the years, Bob's job as an electrical contractor took them to Tacoma and Spokane, WA, Duluth, MN, Valley City and Fargo, ND and Golden Valley and Eagan, MN. Sadly, her husband passed away in May 1977. She returned to Fargo in 1982 to care for an elderly sister-in-law.Gladys had a deep impact on everyone she met. She had a very infectious smile. She was a dedicated wife, homemaker, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother. The special focus of Gladys's life was her family and friends. She was a great cook as was evidenced by the wonderful aromas of cinnamon and caramel rolls that she made every Saturday. Nobody ever went away hungry from our home. While a member of Olivet Lutheran Church Fargo and Easter Lutheran Church Eagan she was very active in Ladies Aid and Quilting which she enjoyed immensely. She was always available for a friend in need. Her positive attitude and loving ways made a difference in the lives of many people. For the past 8 years, she has lived in assisted care at Good Samaritan and Edgewood Vista in East Grand Forks, MN.She is survived by her children: Joan Bob Johnson, Crookston, MN; James Mary Ann Acker, Ocala, FL; Dan Acker, Eagan, MN. Nine Grandchildren: Laurie Brad Holcomb, Grand Forks; Shelly Jesse Kitrell, Sioux City, IA; Drs. Steve Teri Johnson, Fargo; Chad Shalina Peera Johnson, Corona del March, CA; Dr. Paul Carmen Johnson, Little Falls, MN; Todd Kathi Acker, Crawfordville, FL; Cindy Acker, Treasure Island, FL; Dr. Thomas Acker, Tampa, FL; Scott Acker, Edina, MN; 18 great grandchildren and 2 great-great granddaughters; a brother, Dr. Selmer Loken of St Paul, MN, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert, parents and 9 brothers and sisters. May she rest in peace.The family wishes to thank Lois and staff at Edgewood Vista and the staff at Good Samaritan Village for the wonderful care that she received. In Lieu of flowers please make a contribution in her memory to a charity of your choice.