Jack J. Ashley

Jack J. Ashley, 80, of Benton Harbor, passed away Friday, November 11, 2005 at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph. This very loved man brings an end to an era. Jack Ashley was an unbelievable salesman who was always very accessible. His family and friends were kept amused and entertained by his wonderful quips and mannerisms. Always the epitome of loveable sarcasm you were assigned a “nickname” showing his love for you. Jack will have left behind a legacy of beautiful friendships, quality folks who will always have great stories about “Jack”. Jack and “Dad” will be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:30 A.M. Monday at North Shore Memory Gardens Chapel with Rev. Nancy Humes of Riverview Park Christian Church officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by Coloma American Legion Post #362, VFW Post #1137 of Benton Harbor and VFW Post #6803 of Watervliet. Memorials may be made to Riverview Park Christian Church of which he was a member. Following the services, friends are invited for a time of fellowship at the church. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Jack was born October 7, 1925 in Chicago to John & Frances (Kappel) Ashley. He served his country in the US Army during WWII, and played trumpet in the Army Band. On May 15, 1948, he married the former Dorothy Beedle in Benton Harbor. She preceded him in death on November 7, 1991. Jack was the owner of Ashley Ford in Benton Harbor from 1956-1986, after which he continued as a salesman until just two years ago. Jack was a life member of VFW Post #1137, and a member of the Benton Harbor Elks. He was a self-taught computer enthusiast and a former member of Berrien Hills Country Club. In his spare time, Jack enjoyed golfing and fishing. Jack is survived by his wife Billie; children-Christopher (Sheila Flynn) Ashley of St. Joseph, Ashley (Peter) Hubback of Soquel, CA, Suzie Ashley of Lansing, MI, Rose (Mike) Undem of California, Marla (Richard) Mashak of Grand Rapids, Reva (John) Wygant of St. Joseph, Ilene (Bobby) Wise of California; ten grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and a sister Rose Geib of St. Joseph.