Johnny Ackel, 82, of Hamshire, died Thursday, January 10, 2013 at Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth, in Beaumont. He was born on May 31, 1930, to Aline Marie Menard Ackel and Johnny Ackel in Natchitoches, Louisiana.
He and his mother, Aline moved to Texas where she married Bruce Pipkin. Johnny grew up riding horses, working cattle, hauling hay, building fences and just being a cowboy.
This young cowboy graduated from Beaumont High School and while attending Sul Ross University in Alpine, became a World Champion NIRA bull rider. Johnny graduated from Sam Houston University; he was instrumental in founding the agricultural program that continues today in Hamshire Fannett High School.
Johnny rodeoed all his life, becoming a top steer wrestler, rodeo producer and stock contractor. He helped many young cowboys with their rodeo careers including his youngest son, Cody.
Johnny was a United States Army veteran having served in the Korean War.
Survivors include sons, John Cody Ackel and his wife, Connie, of Harper; and Cody A. Ackel of Hamshire and his mother, Kim Ackel; brother, Bo Pipkin and his wife, Katherine, of Big Hill; brother-in-law, Donie Deaton of Hamshire; nephews, Fletcher Pipkin, Grayson Pipkin, both of Big Hill; and Josh Deaton, of Luling; great-niece, Madey Pipkin and her mother, Kim Pipkin; and many good friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Aline and Bruce Pipkin; and his sister, Bennie Marie.
A gathering of Mr. Ackel’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Sunday, January 13, 2013, at Broussard’s, 134 West Buccaneer Drive, Winnie. His funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 14, 2013, in Double J Rodeo Arena at Nutty Jerry’s, 18291 Englin Road at Highway 73, Winnie. A family committal will be held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hamshire Fannett High School, Future Farmers of America, c/o Prosperity Bank, Attention: Rhonda Devillier, P.O. Box 743, Winnie, Texas 77665.
