Richard Dean Michels

Richard Dean Michels, 89, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 1, 1935, to Angeline Ehlinger and Leo Michels, Richard lived a life marked by service, integrity, and a deep commitment to justice, faith, and family.

A man of both intellect and compassion, Richard began his journey with a master's degree in philosophy in 1963, studying in places as far-reaching as Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, and Rome. He first answered a calling to the ministry, teaching and serving before ultimately following another passion-law. Returning to the United States, he earned his Juris Doctorate from the Salmon P. Chase College of Law at Northern Kentucky University in 1978 and passed the Kentucky bar exam. After relocating to Louisiana with his wife, Theresa, he took the Louisiana bar exam and began a distinguished legal career that would span nearly four decades.

Richard served his community with distinction, beginning in private practice before taking on leadership roles in public service. He was the active director of Legal Services from 1981 to 1983 and then served as assistant district attorney for child support enforcement in Calcasieu Parish from 1984 to 1990. From 1990 until his retirement in 2018, he held the role of Louisiana State Attorney in the Department of Paternity and Child Support, eventually retiring as an emeritus attorney. His work reflected his lifelong dedication to advocating for families and children.

He was a faithful member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, which he joined in 2003, and was also an active member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the Knights of Columbus. Richard often credited his success to the unwavering support of his beloved wife, Theresa, who encouraged him throughout his personal and professional journey. Together, they shared a love for travel and a life filled with purpose and devotion.

Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Theresa C. Michels; his parents; his sister, Maryland Gunkel; his brother, Donald Michels; son-in-law, Robert Schendel; and one great-grandchild.

He leaves behind a devoted stepfamily who will forever cherish his memory: children, Edwin "Buddy" Ellender, Susan Ellender, and Linda Schendel; grandchildren, Heather Moreau (David), Mark Ellender, Kristen Ellender (Justin Richard), Jeff Ellender (Malarie), Jeremy Borgman (Susan), Danielle Sunderhaus (Nick), Justin Borgman (Julie), Lindsey Southwick (Charles), and Bayley Melzer (Jake); along with nineteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at Johnson Funeral Home. A rosary will be recited at the graveside. Richard will be laid to rest at Consolata Cemetery.