October 5, 2012, the Fellows celebrated Steven Ancel's selection as their 2012 Legendary Lawyer at a reception held at the Taft Stettinus & Hollister law firm in downtown Indianapolis.

Gary Case, Old National Bank, couldn't be present but sent comments: "I cannot think of a more deserving member of the Bar. He welcomed me to the bankruptcy and creditors' rights practice when I moved from Arizona to Evansville in 1981. Over the years, he taught me a great deal. He helped me understand the role of a lawyer in business workout practice. He was instrumental in the training of young lawyers through continuing legal education programs."

Steven Ancel, left, receives the Legendary Lawyer Award, from Donald Lundberg, member of the board and the Fellows of the Indiana Bar Foundation.

  
From left, attorneys Tom Yoder, Jim Strain and Jerry Ancel, Steve's brother, spoke about his personal and professional impact on them and their careers.
 
Sorelle Ancel, center, greets friends at the celebration. He credited Sorelle, an accomplished attorney as well,as guiding him at key points in his career.
Friends and family enjoyed the the speakers. Jim Strain defined Ancel as an "avuncular advocate." Tom Yoder described him as, "What lawyers want to be but few are." He learned from Ancel to "preserve the debtor's entreprenurial spirit."
  
Almost 150 people attended the celebration to honor Steven Ancel.
Attorneys from the bankruptcy bar attended to show their support for their colleague. Ancel recognized his colleagues' role in his career: "Lawyers carried me," he said referring to referrals for his business.  Ancel said he loved everything about the practice of law "drafting a contract, dealing with a personal problem or representing a client in court."
  
Many of the personal notes and letters from Steve's colleagues recounted his professional integrity. "His word is his bond," wrote David Kleiman, show here at far right.
  
Well wishers enjoyed reuniting with friends and colleagues. Ancel said his father told him he could be a doctor or a lawyer.
  
Time to reminisce and catch up with friends and colleagues.
  
Regard for Steven Ancel extended beyond the legal community and many friends attended to honor him and his committment to his family and the community.
Colleagues enjoy a moment together.
Family showed their support for Steve Ancel with many traveling from around Indiana  and beyond to attend the celebration.
Friends enjoying a moment together during the celebration.