PATRICIA MARIE ACTON

Big Lake resident Patricia Marie Acton died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002.

A memorial service will be held at the Faith Bible Fellowship on Hollywood Drive in Big Lake at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18. Pastor Ethan Hansen will officiate the service. A potluck reception will immediately follow the service at the Hanger Lounge, Mile 1.5 South Big Lake Road.

Mrs. Acton was born in France and grew up in Waterford, Mich. She moved to Anchorage in 1979. She was very involved in helping others and was one of the biggest supporters of the state of Alaska. One of her favorites was volunteering for the Iditarod. Her latest contribution was opening and maintaining the Big Lake State Parks this past summer. She recently opened a deli and coffee shop called "Patty's Place" in the Homesteader's Mall.

Her family said, "Patty was known for her liveliness and her passionate zest for life. Her caring and generosity for others was appreciated by those who knew her. She will be greatly missed."

Her father, Robert Cook, and aunt, Carleen Thomas, preceded her in death.

She is survived by her husband Herschel; daughters, Ashley 15, Alyssa 11, Amber 10; son, Herschel 13; mother, Josette Cariera of Minn.; sister, Brigitte Cook of Florida; brothers, Mike Cook of Wisconsin and Robert Cook of Florida; aunt, Pamela Fortunati of Italy; grandfather, Carl Cook of Wisconsin; 16 cousins, one niece; in-laws Julie Carter and Delana Acton of Anchorage and many other relatives in France.

In lieu of flowers donations for the family may be made to the Patricia Acton Memorial fund at the following locations: Mat-Valley Federal Credit Union, Account No. 99410, Phone 907-745-4891; Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, 851 USA Circle, Wasilla, AK 99654, Account No. 1060338, Phone 907-376-2650; Century 21, Attn: Sue, 991 Herman Road, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone 907-376-2448.

Arrangements were made by Valley Funeral Home.