Mildred Ruth Akershoek

   Mildred Ruth (Johnson) Akershoek passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on January 19th, 2024 at Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. 

   Mildred was born on January 4, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan. After completing high school, Mildred worked in the Accounting Department for the Michigan Bell Telephone Company. Later on, she joined the Cadillac Motor Car Division in the office of James Roche, who would eventually become the President of General Motors. She married Harold Akershoek on March 30, 1957 in Angola, Indiana and soon afterward they moved to Trenton, Michigan, where they raised their family. She also continued working part-time at West Grange Pharmacy, retiring in 1982.

   Mildred was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School for eleven years and later served as chairman of the Altar Circle and Wedding Committee. Her dedication to her faith and church community was recognized and appreciated by all who knew her.

   During her leisure time, Mildred enjoyed playing bridge and traveling. These hobbies allowed her to explore new places and engage with others who shared similar interests. Mildred's passion for bridge brought joy and camaraderie into her life while creating lasting memories with friends and loved ones. She eventually moved to Iowa to be near her beloved family.

   Mildred is survived by her daughter Carla (Pete VanDeRiet) Akershoek, granddaughter Lauren VanDeRiet, of Clive, Iowa, and her two sisters, Lorraine Wilson and Betty Jean Neuenfeldt of Michigan. Mildred's love for her family was immeasurable, and these cherished relationships brought immense joy and fulfillment into her life. She was preceded in death by her parents John Charles and Ruth (Olmstead) Johnson, husband Harold, and loving son, Hal.

   Mildred will be remembered as a remarkable woman who excelled in her career, nurtured lifelong friendships, and held her family close to her heart. Her dedication, kindness, and unwavering faith have left an indelible mark on all who knew and loved her. While she may no longer walk amongst us, her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched. We will forever cherish the memories we shared with Mildred and the profound impact she made on our lives. May she rest in eternal peace.