Kathy Ackels

Kathy Ackels went to be with her loving animals and the Lord on Sunday July 11, 2021, at the age of 63.

Kathy was born January 2, 1958, the daughter of Jack and Patricia (Barnard) Burns.  Kathy married Rick Ackels in August of 1984.  Kathy and Rick shared many years of adventures including exploring the different states on a motorcycle as well as settling down in Edmore, MI on a farm of 80 acres.  The farm was home to several different types of animals including horses, cows and chickens. Yet Kathy’s favorite animals were her sled dogs.  She enjoyed working with them and developing new skills not only for herself but her dogs as well.  Kathy was able to make it see the Iditarod dog sled in Alaska several times and was very elated at that experience.

She is survived by her loving husband Rick; step-children: Lisa (Paul) Phillips, Jeremy (Dawn) Ackels, Thomas (Allison) Ackels, and Stephanie (Dane) Long, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents Jack and Patricia and her brother Doug Burns.

Cremation will take place and in lieu of service and flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA of Michigan, 4955 West K1 Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.  Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com.   The family is served by Smith Family Funeral Homes- Houghton Chapel, Ovid MI.