Diane Ackert Obituary

Diane Hope (Christianson) Ackert

March 15, 1952 - January 20, 2004

Diane H. Ackert passed away January 20, 2024 at the age of 71 in her home in Apple Valley, MN surrounded by her family. Diane raised her family in Inver Grove Heights.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents Alfred Christianson and Mildred (Anderson) Chrstianson, and her siblings Gordon, Roger, and Bruce. She is survived by her children Joe (Amy) Ackert, Katie (Jeremy) Schroeder, and Chris (Kayleah) Ackert; grandchildren Noah, Josh and Harmony Ackert and Peter and Julian Schroeder; and siblings Duane Christianson, Joan Hirte, and Maxine Quinn. 

Diane’s memorial service will be February 6 at 2:00 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (htlcmpls.org) in Minneapolis. A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. with a light reception to follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Minnesota Boychoir (Landmark Center, 75 West 5h Street, Suite 411, Saint Paul, MN 55102) and Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (2730 E 31st St, Minneapolis, MN 55406). 

Diane grew up in Old Cottage Grove, MN and went to Park High School. She loved Easters and summers on the family farm in Paynesville, MN. After a long career of working and raising her family, Diane ended her career at Target Corporate. Diane was an incredible mom, grandma, daughter, sister, auntie, friend, and mentor. She loved with depth and authenticity. She was patient. She was fair. She made it look easy.

Diane battled cancer bravely and with unbelievable grace. She was the best of us. Our tether. Our North Star. To know her was to know kindness and gentleness. Her life wasn’t always easy, and yet she was the model of resiliency. She made us want to be our best selves, but she accepted us just how we were. 

She was loved by so many. Her memory will be forever cherished.