Roger Lewis Acton, 95, of Eden Prairie, died April 23, 2023. He grew up in St Anthony Park, attending Murray High School.
After a stint in the U.S. Army, Roger earned an engineering degree from the U of M and started Acton Construction Company, primarily building sewage treatment plants across the U.S. He later worked for the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission and as vice-president of Hartnett Partnering Consultants.
Undoubtedly, Roger’s greatest construction project was a family cabin in Brainerd, spending weekends with pencil over ear and hammer in hand. Roger loved the outdoors and northern Minnesota lakes, rivers and North Shore. He enjoyed flowers, creating many beautiful gardens and was an avid supporter of the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Roger’s motto was: “When given a choice of doing something familiar over something new, always choose the new.” He was excited to share his knowledge and offer advice, often mixed with humor.
Roger was preceded in death by sister Carolyn, second wife Janice, and loving companion, Donna Hoiland. He is survived by his first wife, Kay, and their five children: Cindy Acton, Patty Beaudry, Mary (Richard) Crist, Becky (Tony) Monteforte, Tom Acton and Dutch daughter Afke, as well as 11 grandchildren & 12 great-grandchildren. He also held close to his heart the extended families of his second wife Janice and loving partner Donna.
Roger will be remembered every year when the tulips come up, the lupines bloom and the sumac turns red.
A memorial service has been held. Memorial donations may be made to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
