The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Renee Akaka’s remarkable life of faith was rewarded on August 9 when, surrounded by her family, she passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Born on November 26, 1961, in Pico Rivera, California to Wayne Glover and Carol (Bird) Glover, Renee quickly revealed an indomitable spirit. Her sister Penny remembers with fondness riding motorcycles together on their parents’ property near Yamhill, after the family moved to Oregon.

As a young professional, Renee spent time in Portland working for a law firm, as well as in Alaska, before relocating to the Kona area of Hawaii. There she began raising her children. She moved her family to Sisters, just in time to welcome a new century.

In Sisters, Renee worked for Multnomah Publishing and co-owned a natural foods store. But she especially delighted in overseeing the book ministry division of The 1687 Foundation. Renee’s efforts since 2006 helped provide free Christian books of hope and encouragement to the incarcerated, first responders, and the military—20 million books to date.

While a single mom with young kids, Renee conquered breast cancer and later trained vigorously for the Avon 39 Walk to End Breast Cancer, a two-day, 39-mile marathon and a half. Always active, Renee completed many races including the runDisney/Star Wars Rival Run, the Honolulu Marathon, and several Heaven Can Wait 5K walk/runs in Bend.

When cancer revisited in 2016, she approached it as “just another bump in the road” and experienced numerous victories as she battled with strength and, yes, joy. Her most gratifying victory was being present to welcome her first grandchild into the world on July 11.

She will be remembered by multitudes as a friend to all with a heart of gold, a soul of worship, and a ready laugh.

Renee is survived by her mother, Carol Glover; sisters LeAnn Glover and Penny Ray; daughter Rebecca Barth (Jake); sons Wayne “Kamm,” Jacob, and Brian; and grandson Arlo Barth.

Renee’s favorite scripture reflects the jubilant spirit that ministered to many and will be deeply missed: “This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).

The family thanks Partners in Care of Bend for their invaluable support. Donations in Renee’s honor may be made to Military Missions Network or Puppies Behind Bars.

Join us in celebrating Renee’s life and legacy at 11 a.m. on September 4, at Westside Church in Bend.