Clara Louise Aker (Engstrom), 60, passed away peacefully on September 8th, 2012 and was reunited with her husband and best friend, Brad Aker. Clara was born December 28th, 1951 in Ottumwa, Iowa. She was a member of Community Church of Joy and enjoyed 38 years as a claims adjuster for State Farm. Clara graduated from Maryvale High School where she played tennis and was on the pom-pom line. Clara married her high school sweetheart, Brad, on May 7th, 1971 and they recently celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary. Clara and Brad have three strong children. They devoted their lives to ensuring their children’s success and bright future. Clara always encouraged her children to experience life and see new things. Clara was always planning their next family adventure or hanging out in her backyard poolside. She spent her time traveling for weekend lake trips, camping, and endless softball and soccer tournaments to cheer on her kids. But, her favorite trips were to Mexico; whether it was Rocky Point, Mazatlan, Cabo or Puerto Vallarta, she always loved the sun, beach, and a good local watering hole. Clara loved football and she could always be found cheering on ASU and watching her favorite NFL team, the Dallas Cowboys! Clara loved her five grandchildren; Owen (5), Serenity (4), Kaylee (4), Ashley (2) and Bryan (1). Once they came into her life, she retired to spend as much time as possible with them. Her house was quickly transformed into a small toy shop and she spent her days teaching them to garden, swim, and take afternoon naps! Clara and Brad loved to spend time with the grandchildren and would plan special road-trips to Tombstone or the Tucson Rodeo just for fun. Clara had a huge heart and a caring soul. Her family will miss her fun, outgoing spirit. Clara is preceded in death by her husband Bradley, father Carl, and mother Frances. She leaves behind two sisters, Carol and Connie (Mike) and a special brother & sister in-law, Tom and Patty Aker. Clara’s enthusiasm for life and fun spirit lives on through her daughters Alison (Kevin) and Rebecca (Jason) and son David. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held privately by the family. Condolences and memories may be offered to the family at www.greenacresglendalemort.com. Clara and her family are big supporters of Hospice of the Valley (www.hov.org), the family requests donations to be sent there in honor of her memory.
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