Death Notices

ASHLEY, Richard Alan “Rick” (1945-2022) – on Friday, March 25th, 2022 at the Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe, age 76.  Our family lost its pillar of strength with the passing of Rick.  Dear son of the late Helen & Albert Ashley who with Rick’s grandson Brady were waiting at the gates of Heaven to welcome him home.  Beloved husband of Leona Ashley (nee McCready) of Simcoe.  Loving father & grandfather of Rick Ashley Jr. (Bonnie) of Simcoe, Scott Ashley (Karen) of Simcoe, Heather Lowes (Kevin) of London and David Hall (Stephanie) of Grimsby.  Cherished grandfather & great grandfather of Rick (Kayla), Forrestt (Justin), children Daxton, Aubree & Lennox;  Lisa (Brodie), children Tyson, Cole & Miken;  John;  Anderson;  Cru (Erin); Alyssa (Joe), children Kayla & Austin;  Sheyenne and Alexis.  Rick will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Marianne Ashley-Anderson (Ross) of Guelph, Larry Ashley (Gail) of Halifax and Keith Ashley (Kay) of Simcoe.  Sadly missed by his in-laws Ahneta & Doug, Judy & Jeff, and by nieces, nephews & extended family.  Best friend of Colleen and of Davie who made sure he had a Timmies everyday.  Rick was employed by Loblaws for more than 25 years.  He then decided to return to school and get his social service counselling degree.  He worked with CAS, the Norfolk School Board, Woodview Children’s Centre before he found the rewarding position with REACH, where he stayed until cancer forced early retirement.  Rick was definitely a fighter, for 18 years he fought the disease as it kept re-appearing until an infection claimed his life.  The doctors at Juravinski Cancer Centre called him a “walking miracle” because he won battle after battle and still carried on.  Rick was an avid sportsman, whether it was fastball as a player and coach, fishing, bowling, golf or watching games of any sport of TV.  Rick made many friends at his weekend hideaway at Hidden Valley Campground where he played cards, bingo and horseshoes.  He was a respected coach of young softball players, being a great influence on many.  When his Pee Wee team fought a long hard battle towards on Ontario Championship; as incentive, Rick told them if they won they could cut off his beard.  When he arrived back in Simcoe there were 18 boys with scissors and razors waiting for him.  Friends are invited to share their memories of Rick with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe N3Y 3R3 for visitation of Friday, April 1st, 2022 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.  Rick’s funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m.  Private interment of ashes at a later date.  Those wishing to donate in memory of Rick are asked to consider the Juravinski Cancer Centre or Children’s Hospital, London.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199