Marlene A. Acker

Marlene A. Acker

May 18, 1936 - April 08, 2026

Obituary

LIVESTREAM SERVICE:

Marlene’s Livestream Service will begin at 11 a.m. CT on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Scroll down to the Webcast section and click on “Watch Now.”



MIDDLETON - Marlene A. Acker passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 8, 2026, at the age of 89.


Marlene was born on May 18, 1936, at the family farm in Perry Township, WI. She was the daughter of Albert and Bertha Sutter and had nine siblings.


While at Club 18 in Mount Horeb she met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Acker. They were married on October 25, 1956. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and unwavering partnership. Their marriage was a true example of commitment and companionship, marked by shared joys, steady support, and a deep bond that carried them through life’s many seasons.


Marlene worked for several years in administrative office roles where she was known for her diligence and kindness. Her greatest work was within her home. She was a wonderful homemaker who created a place where family always came first, and where everyone felt welcomed and loved. Marlene had a special gift for making everyday moments meaningful and fun. Whether it was preparing delicious family dinners, celebrating holidays with heartfelt traditions, or simply offering a listening ear, she created a legacy of love that will live on for generations.
 

Marlene was a proud and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She rarely missed a sporting event, performance, or special moment in her grandchildren’s lives.


She and Dick enjoyed many trips to “up north” Wisconsin, to see the beautiful sunsets, sunrises, and explore waterfalls in Michigan. They also enjoyed playing cards in a couple’s league with special friends for more than 55 years. Marlene appreciated the simple pleasures of life and nature. Her strong faith guided her daily life and was a source of strength and comfort. She was an enthusiastic Packers football and Brewers baseball fan, and her love and understanding of the games was incredibly special.
 

Marlene is survived by her five children, Rita (Bob) Beam, Randy (Kim) Acker, Mike (Kari) Acker, Julie Acker and Janet (Kevin) Marszalek; 11 grandchildren, Leigh (Frank) Dierking, Ryan (Lena) Acker, Lauren (Heath) Meier, Amy (Brian) Cleven, Sarah (Jason) Barber, Jenna (Carlos) Ramirez, Ben (Caroline) Acker, Devin Eisner, Bob (Megan) Marszalek, Matt (Rachel) Marszalek and Dan (Sara) Marszalek;  and 13 great-grandchildren, Natasha and Mackenzie Cleven, Abby Barber, Leo, Luke and Emma Meier, Leo, Charlie and Emilia Ramirez, Elisa and Camille Acker, and Luke and Lily Marszalek; and sisters, Pauline (Lou) Tvedt, Cecilia (Bill) Walsh, and Rosie (Kenneth) Miller.


She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dick; parents, Albert and Bertha Sutter; son-in-law, Jeff Schram; grandson, Matthew Beam; sister, Toni Adams; brothers, LaVerne, Sylvester, Joseph, Dennis, and Russ Sutter; sisters-in-law, Agnes Sutter, Lynne Sutter; and brothers-in-law, Kenneth Miller and Lou Tvedt.


Mom, your life was a testament to love, especially the enduring love you shared with Dad, and the family you built together. You will be deeply missed and forever held in our hearts. With grateful love, your children.


A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. BERNARD CATHOLIC CHURCH, 7450 University Ave., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, with Father Brad Grobbel presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass. A luncheon at the church will follow the Mass. After the luncheon, a private burial will be held at St. Ignatius Calvary Cemetery, 9418 County Highway S, Mount Horeb.


Special thanks to Agrace HospiceCare for their amazing care.


In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or any preferred charity. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761


Events

16
Visitation
Thu Apr 16, 2026 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
St. Bernard Catholic Church (Middleton) • 7450 University Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
16
Mass of Christian Burial
Thu Apr 16, 2026 @ 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT
St. Bernard Catholic Church (Middleton) • 7450 University Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
16
Luncheon After Service
Thu Apr 16, 2026 @ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM CDT
St. Bernard Catholic Church (Middleton) • 7450 University Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
No photos of Marlene have been shared yet.
AA
A Memorial Tree was planted for Marlene Anne Acker
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Middleton
KA
Karen Acker
Other •
Dear Rita, Randy, Mike, Julie and Janet, I am so sad to see Marlene has passed. I will always remember her as friendly, kind and interested in people. Also, beautiful. She and your dad were a good looking couple, and both had warm, welcoming personalities. I feel fortunate to have known them. Rest in peace, Marlene and Dick. -Karen Acker
RS
Rita Sailing
Other •
To Marlene’s Family So sorry for your loss. It is always hard to say goodbye to a Mother and Sister. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rita (Hefty) Sailing- a cousin

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