Cindy VanDenAcre, age 57, of Blue Earth, passed away on April 5, 2026. Celebration of Life will be held on April 27, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Morson-Ario-Strand VFW, Post 950, 1900 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001. 

   Cindy was born December 24, 1968 in Mankato, MN to Thomas and Ruth (Nye) VanDenAcre. Her challenges started early in life, but Cindy faced her challenges like a trooper, and at times, was determined to have her way. As a young child Cindy attended Open Arms, and went to grade school at Roosevelt Elementary. She later graduated from Mankato East Special Ed. Cindy worked and did activities through MRCI and Lifeworks. Cindy liked cats and babies. She enjoyed music and liked to dance, family time, and going for walks. 

   Because Cindy was nonverbal and had physical limitations it also challenged her family, friends, associates and caregivers. What was Cindy thinking? How was Cindy feeling? It challenged them to have more empathy, patience, kindness, love, and slow down in their interactions with her. You knew when Cindy laughed she was happy or thought something was funny. You were relieved for that time because you knew Cindy found a pause from her challenges. You also knew when Cindy cried or pulled her hair she was unhappy, hurting or mad at the world. When Cindy leaned into you, putting her head on your shoulder or chest, you knew she liked you and found comfort. Cindy lived at home . Her mom, Ruth, provided the best quality of life for Cindy that she could. Cindy's mom passed away in 2007, and at that time Cindy faced more challenges; The absence of her mom, moving into a group home , and health challenges. Cindy's family of brothers and sisters were involved in Cindy's life, having family get-togethers, looking out for Cindy's wellbeing, and letting her know she was loved. Cindy had many wonderful staff and caregivers that enriched her life. Their care, advocacy, and dedication have not gone unnoticed and has been greatly appreciated. Thank you to all of you. 

   Romans 8:38,39 assures that nothing, not even death, can separate us from the love of God. Life denied Cindy many things. Rev 21:4 reassures us that Jehovah God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor out cry, nor pain be anymore the former things have passed away. Look! I am making all things new. Acts 24:15 Have hope in the resurrection and we will see Cindy again living the life God intended for her. 

   Left to cherish her memory are Cindy's siblings Mary Jo (Dan) Klingbiel, Linda (Dennis) Hoehn, Dan (Autumn) Robinson, Peggy Michel, Bruce (Cindy) Robinson, Tom VanDenAcre, Krissy (Jim Gimberline) Beyer, and Bonnie Schruin. 

   She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother in-law John Schruin.