Anita L. Acken

Anita L. Acken, was born on July 9th, 1936 in Shellrock, IA to Roger and Esther Renning. She grew up with her sister on the family farm. She met her husband while attending Gates Business College. They were married on December 9, 1956. They welcomed their daughter soon after in September 1957. Looking for work, their little family moved to the Twin Cities in 1958. It was in Golden Valley they put down roots and lived for more than 57 years.

In Anita’s earlier years she worked for Bjorkman’s. She later used her bookkeeping knowledge in the accounting department at Schlamps. Once she “retired”, her focus turned to creating a business of her own, Cozy Creation by A2. One of her many talents could be seen in the countless Afghans and blankets she crocheted. She could often be found at craft shows on the weekends either selling her work or collaborating with other crafters.

When she wasn’t working, she enjoyed spending time with those she loved. Whether it was bowling with her friends in a league, getting together for card club, going for walks, or watching a good baseball game, the people are who mattered. She often went back to Iowa to spend time with her mom, sister, and cousins. She also enjoyed fishing with her family in Alexandria, MN. At home she made sure she looked out for her neighbors around her. Everyone was welcome to her warm home, good food and a hot cup of coffee. Many looked forward to her delicious cooking!

She was an example of selflessness and giving. She is dearly loved by her family and friends and will be profoundly missed.

She was preceded in death by husband, Robert “Bob”; son-in-law, Don Connelly; great grandson, Brian.

Anita is survived by daughter, Deb Connelly; grandchildren, Shannon Elwood, Sarah (Scott) Vaneps, Karen (Thomas) Price, Robert Connelly and Johnathan Connelly; ten great grandchildren; sister, Edna Mae (Jerry) Bond. 

Memorial service will be 3:00 PM Saturday, March 18 at Brunswick United Methodist Church, 6122 42nd Ave N., Crystal, with visitation one hour prior the service.

Private interment Fort Snelling. 

Memorials preferred to Brunswick United Methodist Church.

Her legacy of serving the Lord and loving others will be in our hearts forever.

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