Ashton O'Donnell

I first met Ash when he joined Bechtel in 1964. I began reporting directly to him in 1968 and that relationship continued until he retired in 1986. Ash was my mentor, my supporter, and my friend, a relationship that continued to his passing. Although I moved to Washington DC in 1990, we kept in contact on a regular basis.

I owe the success I have had in my career to this wonderfully intelligent, kind, and thoughtful man. He was able to help me during the rough times in my life,...

It was moving to attend the ice cream social on Saturday. What a beautiful idea to hold the event in that manner. In addition to what I shared about Whitman's global studies program existing and thriving thanks to Ash and Gini's vision, I want to add a personal anecdote.

I returned to Walla Walla Sunday night to dinner with my wife and three kids. In a very real way, Ash's work made our family possible. My father-in-law was a POW in WWII, surrendered at Bataan where he was...

I had originally intended to relate a funny story involving Ash, Gini, Ash's chainsaw and number of stubborn, protected trees, but after reading many of the responses from his Bechtel colleagues I decided to take a more serious approach and talk about the respect Ash commanded. I have been working with Bechtel executives like Ash for over 30 years, and time after time, not only years ago when Ash was active in the Company, but up to date, every person I meet whom Ash touched with his gifted...

My memories of Ash started when I was a kid not too long after he started working with my dad (Ken Davis). Over the years I always especially appreciated Ash's engagement with the people around him....young and old. He always had time to discuss issues and answers. Two big memories for me were to work for Ash at Bechtel in the 80's and then for Ash to give the "keynote" talk at my dad's memorial service. He was a wonderful friend and mentor. I think he and my dad are up there right now...

My memories of Ash and family go way back to 1950, when Dick joined the Atomic Energy Comm. in Richland, WN. Our first child was born there, and our two families spent much of our spare time together. He and Dick were especially close in business, and kept finding themseves together in various undertakings through the years, ending up at Bechtel. He was such a learned man, and enjoyed sharing his knowledge in so many fields. Ash and Ginny were such wonderful parents to their lovely...

Ash meant so much to me here at the VillaMarin.He and Ginny,my husband and I had many a happy time together.When both of our wonderful spouses "left" us.we helped eachother.What a brilliant and wonderful man. Ash gave an ice cream social for Ginny's birthday and we all had a great time. I know this Saturdays will also be beautiful,and I'm sad I cannot be there. Corinne Abel

I met Ashton and Gini through a mutual family friend about 4 years ago. I was in the middle of the college application process, and after spending some time talking to Ashton and Gini about Whitman, I knew I wanted to apply. Ash, Gini and I had a lot of the same values and ideals when it came to education, and because they spoke so highly of Whitman, I figured it would be a great fit for me. So here I am, 4 years later, going into my senior year at Whitman. I can say that I have loved my...

I met Ash, Gini, and the “girls” about 3 years ago as I became involved in part of the family’s investment activities. In that short time, it became very apparent that the well being of the entire family held a high place of importance in Ash’s life. He was always pleasant to talk with and exceptionally sharp. If only I could be that sharp at 89! I especially enjoyed hearing the very involved stories relating to the “cabin” in Idaho. Ash certainly enjoyed his life and his family. Hold...