Traverse City, Michigan
TRAVERSE CITY — Richard Ask, 60, of Traverse City, left this world holding his Savior's hand on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at Munson Medical Center. Richard was born on Sept. 6, 1949, in Grand Rapids.
After graduating from Traverse City Central High School, he faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Army in the Vietnam War.
Richard was a lifetime member of the VFW Cherryland Post #2780 and served as their Chaplain. Richard was a member of the Church of Christ and had a strong faith. He was the co-founder and past president of the American Association of Entrepreneurs, where he travelled on a national speakers circuit and was a featured guest for ABC's 20/20 on several occasions. Richard often described himself as a renaissance man.
He had a varied career as a media consultant, owner of an advertising agency in Traverse City, producer for the local TC-TV2 television station, preacher and an instructor at NMC.
In his spare time, Richard enjoyed reading, cooking and bird watching.
Richard is survived by his companion, Mary Murphy of Traverse City; son, Richard Ask II of Colorado Springs, Colo.; daughter, Julia Ask of Alabama; several stepbrothers and stepsisters; and two grandchildren, Kenny and Ashley.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, William and Henrietta Ask.
A graveside service honoring Richard's life will be held on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, at 1 p.m., at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens, with military honors provided by Cherryland Post #2780.
Memorial donations in Richard's name may be directed to the Church of Christ or VFW Cherryland Post #2780.
Kindly share memories with the family on Richard's online guest book at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
Arrangements have been made with Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
I only knew Richard through correspondence at the online veterans group, but his statements had purpose and conviction, and his presence will be missed.
Bob Ziesmer
December 27, 2009 | NM
Goodnight sweet prince,and may angels sing thee to thy rest.
Thank you for everything and I am so very glad you are at rest.
aisha
December 14, 2009 | UM
I have known Richard for 18 years. He has always been a good friend to me, and he was a continuous source of inspiration and support. I will always hold his friendship and memory dear to my heart.
Dina Learned
December 04, 2009 | Traverse City, MI
I knew Richard for the last 15 years or so. Passion....is what I think of when it came to his beliefs. His energy has helped many that never knew him. Blessings to the family and all his friends.
Greg Stone
December 03, 2009 | Traverse City, MI
I knew Richard as co-moderator on an online health board concerning PTSD. Richard was a tireless defender and supporter of veterans' rights. As a staunch Libertarian, we shared many spirited political debates, as Richard dearly loved his country. He is also survived by many friends. I hope I was as good a friend to Richard as he was to me. He will be missed, but we all follow along eventually, and won't that be a glorious Coming Home? Rest in the Love and Peace of Jesus until we all meet again.
Lynn Brecka
December 02, 2009 | Waukesha, WI
Mr. Ask, I am glad to have known you. God's blessings, and we will meet again.
Linette Martin
December 02, 2009 | Beulah, MI
