I was saddened to learn that Dr. Robert B. Ancell passed away of natural causes at the age of 79 on January 12, 2021. He was a remarkable man, a long-time member and supporter of IARP, and arguably the dominant figure in Forensic Vocational Rehabilitation in Michigan during the 42 years I have been practicing. His passing should be acknowledged. Dr. Ancell was actively occupied as a Forensic Vocational Expert until the end of his life. It is unlikely that any of us that serve as Vocational Experts have not encountered the evaluations and opinions of Dr. Ancell. HIs career in the field of Vocational Rehabilitation spanned 54 years.
Dr. Ancell began his distinguished career with the Michigan Rehabilitation Service in 1967, where he worked as a Specialist in Industrial Disability, and also Metro Projects Supervisor, for almost 10 years. He had previously majored in Psychology as an undergraduate and subsequently earned a Masters Degrees in Counseling and Industrial Psychology in 1967. He worked as the Executive Director of a psychiatric clinic from 1975-78, and during those years was one of the very first to set up a private practice as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor in 1976. He remained in private practice the rest of his life and his practice grew to include Case Managment. He was clearly an accomplished and widely respected Vocational Expert. Dr. Ancell earned a PhD. from Walden University in 1991. During his career he also served as adjunct professor, guest lecturer, and internship instructor at the college and university level. His C.V. lists several other organizations to which he belonged, numerous certifications and licenses he held, along with numerous honors and awards. I recall him as an engaging speaker and presenter, with a quick wit.
While contemplating this article about Dr. Ancell, I connected with his daughter, Beth Fienman, a practicing neuropsychologist who specializes in working with children. She recalled several admirable qualities of her father such as his kindness towards others, his ability to connect with his grandchildren, his deep care and concern for his clients (even at the end of his life), and his courage. Dr. Ancell was not a physically imposing man, but he never let anyone, includng institutions, bully him. She mentioned that he was also known for making the best chocolate cake ever, to which he would treat his family and friends on special occasions. He kept the recipe to himself and never shared it with relatives who never stopped asking for it. However, he placed the recipe in his desk where Beth would be sure to find it after he passed.
I did not know Dr. Ancell very well on a personal level. However, since our offices are located 300 yards from each other I dropped by to visit unannounced occasionally in recent years. He was kind and welcoming each time and imparted helpful advice. He attended most, of not all of the brick and mortar conferences IARP Michigan has conducted in recent years. He regularly attended our National Conferences.
His passing leaves a huge void and therefore opportunity that is more likely than not to be filled by multiple experts. Robert Ancell was truly one of a kind.
Michael Rosko