Dane, I too have an Access database that opens a Word file (actually a Word template), but my Access window doesn't minimize upon closing the Word document.
I would check to see if there is any code in the Word VBA that might be causing this.
Also, does the Access window minimize when you open the Word document or only upon closing the Word document? If it is upon closing I would also check your MS Access VBA to see if there is a minimize command under the Got Focus, Current, or Activate events.
Good Luck,
Jeff