AUBURN - Dennis J. Acker, 58, of West Lake Road, Auburn passed away early Wednesday morning, Dec. 21, 2011 at St. Joseph's Hospital after a brief illness. He was born in Auburn, the son of James and the late Laura Orasi Farrelly Acker and had been a life resident. Prior to his recent illness, Dennis had been employed by Nucor Steel for more than 30 years. He loved every aspect of the steel industry and enjoyed mentoring the younger employees about the steel profession. He loved his family, his job and his 1969 Camaro. Dennis was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and enjoyed listening to all types of music. He will be sadly missed by all who were fortunate enough to get to know this special man. One of Dennis's favorite sayings was, 'I'd rather be happy than right.' His sense of humor and friendliness will never be forgotten. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Denise Lepak Acker, of Auburn; a son, Ryan Acker, of Atlanta, Ga.; a daughter, Erin Varnado and her husband, Marshall, of New Orleans, La., two sisters, Diane Woodward and her husband, Dana, of Auburn, Debbie Chamberlain and her husband, Mark, of Moravia; two beloved grandchildren, Eric and Emma Varnado; two brother-in-laws, David Lepak and his wife Michelle, of Port Orange, Fla., Eric Lepak and his wife, JoAnn, of Auburn as well as several aunts, uncles nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours are 3 to 7 p.m. today at the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Francis of Assisi Church. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions may be made in Dennis' memory to the American Heart Association . To send a message to the family, sign our guest book at www.auburnpub.com and click on obituaries.