“Colonel” Michael Alex Ackel, 72, of Monroe, La. passed away Dec. 1, 2021, at his home in Lake Charles, La. surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be held Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, at Johnson & Robison funeral home in Sulphur, La. from 5-8 p.m. with Rosary at 6 p.m. Mass will be held Monday Dec. 6 at 1 p.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Carlyss, La. followed by the graveside at Mimosa Pines.

 Michael Ackel was born on Nov. 13, 1949, to A.L. Dick Ackel and Dorothy Mae O’Quain Ackel. Growing up in Sulphur, La. Mike was an avid duck hunter, AKC dog trainer, and a real cowboy. Cassy and Mike were married in 1971 and moved to Monroe, La. to start his own jewelry business. They had two children and built their home on Oakmont St. where they lived for 40 years. He joined the Monroe Jaycees where he met lifelong friends and business associates that have been with him to this day. Mike ran three successful businesses, including Mike Ackel Auctions where his son, daughter, and granddaughter have all become Auctioneers in his footsteps.

His successes were wide and varied and worth acknowledging….1968-69 National Rodeo Finals Bull Rider, competitive duck caller, GIA Diamond Appraiser, Past Monroe Jaycees President, Miss Louisiana Pageantdirector, Multiple Monroe City Baseball Championship Coach, 2-time Louisiana State Champion Auctioneer.

Mike truly found his purpose in auctioneering, first exposed to it at the Saturday livestock auctions in high school and FFA. He was so proud to be a part of Monroe and was honored to have a profession that could give back to the community through philanthropic organizations such as the Cancer Foundation, ULM, ARCO, Monroe Chamber of Commerce, River Oaks, George Rodrigue Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl and many more.  Mike assisted so many individuals and businesses through his gift as an auctioneer.

Mike was an advocate for downtown beautification and had a niche for redeveloping and revitalizing long forgotten properties which are now thriving businesses. He had unwavering vision and relentless drive. He welcomed a challenge, encouraged improvement, and gave everyone a chance. He lived to coach, whether it be sports, Labrador retrievers or people and was a natural mentor. Anyone he knew, will tell you he knew something about everything, and he never met a stranger.

He was fiercely loyal, loved his family and was heavily involved in all of their lives. Mike and Cassy celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Nov. 20, 2021. Cassy truly embodied “in sickness and in health”. Her matter-of-fact determination kept him where they both wanted to be- Big Lake, La. It was the toughest year of their lives, and they did it together. Their way.

He is survived by his amazing wife of 50 yearsCassy Ackel, and daughter Shelly Ackel. His son David Ackel and daughter-in-law Amanda Heard Ackel who gave Mike and Cassy three beautiful grandchildren, Caroline Grace, Emily Kaye, and Alex Heyward Ackel. Remus his loyal four-legged companion misses him daily. Mike is also survived by his brothers Dicky Ackel, Barry Ackel, Don Ackel, and sisters Darlene Wallace, Jackie Ackel, Jenny Eberle and Marie Pittmon.

The family is especially grateful to the friends and family that have been by his side throughout the brutal disease of male breast cancer. We could not have done it without Every. Single. One. of you.

There will also be an additional Mass held at Jesus the Good Shepherd in Monroe, LA officiated by Father Michael Thang’wa Monday December 13 followed by a “Celebration of Life” at Tower Place from 5-8 p.m.

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Michael Alex Ackel to ARCO of Northeast Louisiana founded by his auction mentor, “Colonel” Ike Hamilton.

We have lost a great person, true friend and Master of Commerce. One hell of a man.