David Ashley

I am not sure if this message will be seen by the family - I just learn today Brett of your father´s passing. I was in the hospital so my friend hadn´t shared. We were just reminiscing and you came up in conversation. I am so very sorry. I hope this message gets to you. I would have reached out last year if I had known.

David and Helen were across the street neighbors of my mother's -- Helen and Betsy were close friends. Dave was always kind and helpful, took pride in his perennial gardens and had that architectural way of looking at things. When the 1998 storm landed Mom's maple tree on her roof Dave helped her install skylights as part of the reroofing. We had known Dave and his family for many years, growing up together at May Memorial. I remember Joanne and his mother, who did shillouette portraits for...

Everyone who knows him has a story about David. A consumate professional, he has been a moving force for knowledge in design, art and science in pursuit of a truly sustainable future. Meanwhile educating us all on his journey. Even two days before he died, as we discussed Onondaga Lake and ReZone planning details he didn't quite agree with, he was giving me assignments for a new web series on design excellence. This was David. Always an exuberance of new ideas for all ages, based in his love...

Worked with David on many projects as an M/E consultant. Always a concerned leader and a knowledgeable architect. Oddly enough, worked with Harry Schuum and David on the same projects. Vary interesting individual, could converse on any subject. Best to the family and know that he was very respected in the professions. Bill Clifford

I worked briefly with Mr. Ashley in the late 80´s-early 90´s. He was a wonderful boss and always willing to teach. My deepest condolences to all his family and friends.

It was a great pleasure to know David these past few years. He was a fine and inspiring gentleman. Please accept my deepest sympathy on his passing. I visited him 2 days before he died. "Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord; Let light perpetual shine upon him. "

I met David in 1992 when I interviewed as a consultant to Ashley McGraw Architects. From the beginning, I greatly admired his passionate advocacy for "humane" architecture that nurtured building occupants. I continued that relationship in 2000, taking a full time job with the firm. In 2003 he asked if I wanted to join him in creating what would eventually become GreeningUSA, a NYS non-profit that continues to advocate for sustainable communities. His leadership and valuable contributions...

David and I grew up together in May Memorial Church in Syracuse, and our families were close as well. We also shared some formative summer work experiences, and stayed in touch throughout our lives. From a distance I followed his community activities, and admired his professional work. I'll miss him greatly.