Dr. Gary K. Ash
Dr. Gary K. Ash, 72, died
Friday (Jan. 20, 2006) at Newton Medical Center. He was born Aug. 19, 1933, to
Elliott and Amy Kennedy Ash in Topeka. They preceded him in death. He married
Chlora Lee Pelton July 31, 1953, in Topeka. She preceded him in death Dec. 12,
1992. He was a member of the Elks, BPOE 427, a 32nd degree Mason and the
Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. Gary was practicing optometrist in Newton.
He was a longtime citizen of Newton, moving to Newton in 1956, and practiced
optometry until his death.
He was a past state president
and district deputy grand exalted ruler of the Elk's Organization and past
president of the Newton Country Club. During the past 15 years, he served as
the State of Kansas' scholarship chairman for the Elk's National Foundation.
Eight national winners of scholarships were awarded during this time.
Gary had been an avid golfer
in the community for many years. He was a strong family man and loved his kids,
grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved the Newton community and was
proud to serve it through the years of his life.
Survivors include: wife,
Paula J. (Frazier) Ash of Newton; a son, Trent Ash and wife Stephanie of
Newton; daughters, Debra French and husband Randy of Haltom City, Texas, and
Laurie Ferrell and husband David of Collierville, Tenn.; a stepson, Brett
Baumgardner and wife Becky of Emporia; a stepdaughter, Wendy Moore and husband
Kevin of Emporia; a brother, William Ash of Placerville, Calif.; seven
grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 2 to
5 p.m. today at Petersen Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be 2
p.m. Tuesday at Petersen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Loren Bill Hickerson
officiating.
Memorials have been
established with the Elks National Foundation (ENF), Kansas Elks Training
Center for the Handicapped (KETCH) and Plane of Mercy-Midian Shrine, all in
care of the funeral home.
