Arthur Aaker, 78, Beaver Creek, died Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2003, at Sioux Valley Hospital in Sioux Falls, S.D.Services were Friday, Jan. 2, at Engebretson Funeral Home in Luverne. Burial was at Palisade Lutheran Cemetery, rural Rock County.Arthur Aaker was born to Irvin and Milla (Lowe) Aaker on Feb. 27, 1925, in Springwater Township, Rock County. He grew up on the family farm and attended grade school at a country school. He graduated from Beaver Creek High School in 1942. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran serving in the European Theatre. After his honorable discharge, he returned to the Beaver Creek area and farmed for a few years. He married Vernice Olson on May 8, 1951, in Luverne. He worked for a brief time as an auto mechanic and then for the plumbing and heating business until his retirement. Mr. Aaker enjoyed fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed woodworking and could fix anything. Survivors include his wife, Vernice Aaker, Beaver Creek; two daughters, Nancy (Greg) Hesla, Wakonda, S.D., and Barb (Larry) Von Holtum, Magnolia; five grandchildren, Christine, Mark, Jordan and Nicole Von Holtum, and Erin Hesla; three brothers, Roger Aaker, Gordon Aaker, both of Garretson, S.D., and Larry Aaker, California; and several nieces. nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Mr. Aaker was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son. Engebretson Funeral Home in Luverne was in charge of arrangements.
