Mary Jane Acklam

Mary Jane Acklam, 93, passed to eternal life at Alexian Hospice Care on August 4, 2014. At her side was her beloved daughter Mary (Acklam) DeManche and husband Larry.

Mary Jane was born in Racine WI on February 13, 1921 to the late Jonas and Kristine (Nee: Bundeson) Petersen. On March 6, 1946, she was united in marriage to George Acklam. She and her husband, George, retired to Minocqua, WI in 1982. After George’s passing in 2003, Mary Jane remained in the Minocqua area until 2010, when she moved to the Chicago area to reside with her daughter Mary and son-in-law Larry.

A love of faith, family and friends guided her through life. She was an active member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Racine where she sang in the choir and participated in Bible study groups. Later she joined Calvary Lutheran Church in Minocqua, WI where she sang in the choir, was a frequent reader of the liturgy and an active volunteer.

Her concern and caring for others extended beyond those usually considered “relatives” to anyone who needed a close friend or a warm hug. She was always encouraging others to call her “Mom” and welcomed guests into her home and to join in a meal.

Mary Jane had a real zest for life—she enjoyed playing piano, singing, knitting, golfing, bowling, playing cards, and learning anything new. Her joy of nature included the birds and butterflies found around their north woods home and flowers of all kinds. Of special pleasure to Mary Jane were the summer visits at the lake with her grandsons.

Her quiet, witty sense of humor, delivered unexpectedly and with a twinkle in her eye, were with her to the very end. She could make everyone smile even in the most challenging of times.

Mary Jane is survived by her sons, Todd (Janet) Acklam of Grass Valley, CA and Jay (Dolly Kovera) Acklam of Kenosha, WI; daughters, Kris Acklam (Mike Green) of Yuma, AZ And Mary (Larry) DeManche of Streamwood, IL; grandsons Tyler Albright of Racine and Taylor Albright of Yuma, AZ; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband George, she was preceded in death by her three sisters and six brothers.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 12, 2014, 11:00 A.M. at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 3319 Washington Avenue, with Pastor John Bischoff officiating. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Monday at 5:30 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. and Tuesday at the church from 10:00 A.M. until time of service at 11:00 A.M.