Michael Ackley

Michael Lynn Ackley, beloved husband, brother, father, and grandfather peacefully departed us on the morning of July 2, 2024. His family is especially grateful to the staff at Mon Health in Morgantown, West Virginia for their kind and compassionate care in this most difficult time.

Mike Ackley was born in 1948 in Columbus, Ohio to Autmer Ackley and Phyllis Halbirt Ackley. They were a military family and lived in Germany and Hawaii during his father's tours. Mike's time in Hawaii greatly influenced many of his loves in life. Mike graduated from Radford High School in Honolulu, Hawaii and Montgomery College in Maryland and then went on to earn a degree at the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio. He spent 31 years as a systems programmer for the Board of Education in Anne Arundel County Maryland, never losing his passion for technology.

Mike Ackley's life is defined by kindness, compassion, generosity, patience, strength, perseverance, and an indomitable spirit. With an inquisitive nature, easy smile, and whimsical sense of humor, Mike loved company, conversations, and connecting with friends and family. He enjoyed movies, books, bridge, chess, and music, even playing his own as a decades-long banjo player. Over the years, Mike had many furry companions, developing deep mutual connections and relationships with each one. He was a true animal-whisperer.

Mike spent decades as a student and instructor in the martial arts achieving the rank of 4th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. As a teacher and mentor, he positively influenced the lives of so many that trained with him over the years. He faced the challenges in life with humility and poise, setting a lasting example for his children and grandchildren on acceptance and determination.

Mike Ackley is survived by his wife of 36 years Janet Ackley. They stood by each other's side through the best and worst of times building a forever-relationship of love, respect, teamwork, and friendship. He is also survived by his children, Gina, Michael, and Daniel; daughter-in-law, Deanna; grandchildren, Bailey, Paige, and Kaila; niece/goddaughter Samantha; sisters, Kathy (Donn) and Merrie Lee (Tom); and beloved canine companions Desi and Lucy.

Celebrations of Mike's life will be held within a couple of months, one in Athens, Ohio where his sisters live and the other in Annapolis, Maryland, where he lived and worked for many years. Any expressions of sympathy and condolences for Mike and his family can be made to your local Animal Rescue or charity of your choice.

Stories of his love and strength will be told for generations to come. May he now rest in peace in God's hands. Until we meet again.

The C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., Oakland, is honored to be caring for Michael's family at this time.