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Ashley Tollenger Obituary

On August 10, 2001, ASHLEY PAIGE TOLLENGER, of Churchville, MD, loving daughter of Garrett P. Tollenger of Churchville, MD and Linda-Lee Connor of Havre de Grace, MD; sister of Crystal Chester of Mountain Home, Idaho. Also survived by niece Sierra Chester of Mountain Home, Idaho; paternal aunt, Jo Ann Tollenger of Severna Park, MD; paternal uncle, Barrett A. Tollenger and wife, Kathy of Pasadena, MD; cousin Lisa Tollenger of Severna Park, MD; maternal aunts, Barbara Craven and Nancy Murphy of Harford Co, MD; and maternal uncles, Jan Burnett of Harford Co, MD and Tom Burnett of Texas. Friends may call at the Mitchell-Smith Funeral Home at 123 S. Washington Street, Havre de Grace, MD on Tuesday, August 14 from 5 to 9 P.M. with Funeral Services at the Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 15 at 11 A.M. with Pastor Donald Emge officiating. Interment will be in Harford Memorial Gardens. Those desiring may make contributions to the Girl Scouts of Central MD, Inc., 730 W. 40th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211.

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Published by Baltimore Sun on Aug. 13, 2001.

Memories and Condolences
for Ashley Tollenger

Not sure what to say?





August 22, 2006

Gary, I still think of Ashley often,I know she has grown into a lovely Angel of God. May you be at peace, and may God continuously Bless you. The days always seem hectic but remain calm with prayer. I would like you to know that you and Ashley are still in my prayers.

Terri Lawrence

Jo Tollenger

September 13, 2005

Dear Ashley,



I know that you know that you have not be forgotten and never could be. I think of you each day. Your Aunt Kathy told me the other day you paid her a special visit. Thank you I know she really appreciated your message. You Uncle Barry told me he talks to you often and has your picture in his office and sees it each day. Cousin Lisa is going to have a baby in a couple of month and she tells me she too can feel your presence. Why I have the children, Ariel, Cory, Caren and not Adrianna if know you are watching over me. Sometimes I feel like I am holding you once again. Staying in touch with children helps me cope with your loss. I miss you and want you to know my heart will always be missing a bigh chunck that is reserved for you.

I did not want to forget Aunt Linda we often talk about you and she missess you also.



Love,



Aunt's Jo and Linda

Terri Lawrence

August 16, 2005

Gary, It is hard to believe the time that has passed. Just a little note to let you know that I still remember Ashley in my prayers. I think of her often and know she is the angel she was here. May God continue to strenghten you daily. Your friend, Terri

Terri Lawrence

October 4, 2004

Gary, Just a little note to let you know I am thinking about you and Ashley...Keeping her in my prayers, I remember how you and I always used to discuss out daughters and how they would be in high school. Sara is now in 11th grade. Time has passed by so quickly. I am sure Ashley's friends and family are keeping her in their hearts. She was such a lovely young lady and someone you just don't forget. Remembering you both often with prayer, Terri Lawrence

Brittney Allen

April 10, 2004

i just wanted to let you know that i have not forgotten about you, and i miss you so much, Ashley.

Gina Albano

October 2, 2003

Ashley-

I will never forget our great times in science class....you would always make me smile. When I was having one of the worst days of my life you turned into one of the best. Everyday I think of you Ashley and I miss you so much. You are greatly missed and you were a wonderful, beautiful girl that will never be forgotten. You didn't deserve this and at such a young age it wasn't fair to you nor your family. You had a bright future ahead of you full of good grades, homecoming dances, graduation, high school, college, making new friends, getting married... everything Ashley. You didn't deserve this I dont care how much you tell me things happen for a reason. You will never be forgotten.... I will always remember "Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer sticking little white flowers all up in hr hair..."

I LOVE YOU ASHLEY!



Love Always,

Gina Albano

Jessica Rudolph

February 17, 2003

Ashley,

i didn't really know you but i know you were a really great peroson(from what Brittney tells me!!) I wish i got the chance to be your friend. i know how loved you are and several people miss you and wish you were here. I remember walking down the hall in sixth grade and always seeing you pass me with a big, GEORGEOUS smile on your face! i miss that! i know Brittney was one of your best friends(and is currently one of mine) and you were so lucky to meet a person like her!



~Jessica Rudolph~

Brittney Allen

February 17, 2003

Dearest Ashley,

Im so happy that everyone has started signing this guestbook...i guess i can thank your dad for that. I just wish you could see me now..like "up close" i guess. Ive changed so much.I dont wear glasses anymore (YAY FOR CONTACTS!!) Ive gotten taller, and a LITTLE thinner, I got highlights in my hair, and...i think thats it. But its awful because you cant see me. You can only look upon me from heaven. I WISH YOU WERE HERE BECAUSE I MISS YOU AND ITS NOT FAIR!!! GOD SHOULDNT HOG YOU ALL FOR HIMSELF!! (sorry if thats offensive to anyone :-D ) But one thing that would cheer me up would be to see you in videotape or something. Like, to see what you were like as a kid. I bet you still had that HUMUNGOUS smile!!! The only time I remember you sad was one day in school when someone was sick. Your dad said that I could come over and watch videos of you when you were younger...i bet that would be fun. but maybe I could get a bunch of people to watch too. Like Kelsey, and Manda. Of course, Id have to ask your dad first, but im sure it wouldnt be a problem. Im sure all of your other friends would like to see the tapes too. But anyway, before I go, I have a confession to make...Ever since "the accident" when I think of visiting you (your grave), i almost shudder. Like, i dont think im ready..ya know? I could go with like everyone in the world and still feel awkward. I dont know. just give me time ill come soon...I promise.



I miss you!!!

-Brittney



P.S- Also, wanna know something funny?? I was sittin on a stool in my kitchen with Jess Rudolph and my mom and my dad and we were laughing and my chair fell over!! I landed right on my butt in the middle of the floor!!! And then to make things worse, I got up, dusted myself off and jumped up to sit on the counter and when my bum hit the counter's edge, the WHOLE THING broke and fell off of the island....Maybe i should lay off the snacking?? haha

Kelsey Sullivan

February 15, 2003

Ashley~

I honestly don't know where to start...we've had so many memory's...i remember the first time i met you was in band! that was fun...you played in percussion and i played the clarinet. When i met you there for the first time i thought "wow! she's really nice... i hope we become friends!" and soon enough we did...we weren't the closest of friends but we hit Middle school and we were in the same class's which was great! we had so many fun times!!I really appriciate all your help you gave me in science...i never would of been able to do it with out you...and remember that time when we sat next to eachother in social studies!! that was great we got in trouble alot for talking...and i remember when you wrote on my divider "this page belongs to: Ashley Paige Tollenger" we had writings and drawings all over my binder. The best thing about being around you was you always made me laugh and not once did you ever frown... you always had a great big smile on... when ever i'm sad i just think of your smile and i smile myself...we were great friends in middle school..and we become closer...i wish we got to stay that close all through high school...but no matter what you'll always be close to my heart and on my mind...I will NEVER forget you Ashley!! I miss you!! and i know you would of grown up to be a great person. On friday Febuary 14, 2003 BAMS had hoops 4 heart...and it was very nice... me and brittney greeted your dad, and showed him and some of your family members to their seats and they got like a really nice trophey in your name, and your dad donated money in your name it was very nice and i know you would of enjoyed to be there...me and brittney think about you alot and so do many other friends and family that will never forget you...I would of always been there for you just like you were there for me. I will always shed atleast one tear whenever i think of you.I'll miss you but never forget you



With ever peice of my love, i'll miss you...

~Kelsey sullivan

Sara Snyder

February 15, 2003

i didn't really know ashley but i knew she had a kind heart adn was a sweet person...the world is missing something without her.



Why is it god always takes the angels?

Amanda Poe

February 15, 2003

Ashley,

I miss u so much, i think about you everyday! i write poems almost everyday trying to deal with this loss, ive wrote 34 poems so far! Only if u were still here, i cry everytime i hear ur name, heres one of my poems too you!

TO my Dearest Dearest Ashley,



I miss you

& i wish you would come back

You’re hiding I know it

I’ll see you one day soon

When I grow the courage to go through a day

Without tears or pain because I miss you

I’m sorry you’re gone

No goodbyes,

Just a quick accident

And all your dreams are taken away

It doesn’t feel real

It doesn’t make sense

And even though your gone

You still are touching the hearts of many



Without you here it does not feel the same i can not get out of my head that day i found out what happened....u mean so much too me...i will never ever 4get you and i love with all my heart!

U have no idea how many people this affected, like me, brittany, rachel, sara, kelsey and so MANY more....i love you and always will!!! I Love You Ashley & Ill Never Stop

Amanda :):(

Brittney Allen

February 14, 2003

Dearest Ashley,

where do i start? It has been so long. well let me just get everything off of my chest..i miss you. there isint one day that goes by where i dont think, "what if?" what if..you were still here...what if..we got to have all of those "high school memories" that normal best friends have..what if..? its always buzzing through my mind and it wont go away. Ill always remember you. Sometimes when i think about that awful day i just want to keep things to myself and often feel embarressed when im the only one actually getting upset and crying. But then i realize that im NOT the only one...what about Kelsey, and Amber, and Alex, and Hanna...the list could go on and on...Haha, remember the time in Mrs. Smith's class we'd always sit together and Mrs. Smith would have a fit and be like, "Brittney!/Ashley! go back to your own seat!"...and naturally we'd tip toe back to our tables giggling. I had so much fun with you. Everyday, I'd wait in class for you, and be like, "I hope she's here today!" Because every time that you weren't I'd have such a bad day..Seriously. You were my best friend..the first friend i ever made in jr. high. I remember the 1st day @ Bel Air, in Mr. Todaro's class, he was calling role and I remembered you becasue of your interesting last name TOLLENGER..i thought it was kinda neat. But anyway, sometimes its kind of hard to recall any memories because its been so long..i can barely remember how your voice sounded...but i guess that, for me, all i need to know is that you were and are very much loved by myself and others and you will NEVER be forgotten...never

All of my Love, I miss you...

-Brittney Allen

mike ports

September 17, 2002

Gary;I'm proud that you have come so far and that you have had the courage that you need. I also know that there are others and one very special little girl, that share that pride. Stay strong and hold onto the love! Mike..

Lee Ann Ranieri

September 11, 2002

Dear Jo and Family, I know there are only 2 more days for Ashleys Memorial and Guest Book here. In all the years to come, I just wanted to let you know, even when this Guest Book closes, Ashley will still remain in all our hearts and prayers. We will never forget you Ashley, never! Dearest Jo, you are a special friend and I have a special place in my heart for you. You are and will always have Ashley watching over you, because you are the most wonderful Aunt in the world. Peace be with you dear friend, and to all of your family also. You will remain in my prayers always. Love, Lee Ann

Billie Sills

September 9, 2002

Gary and Family,

Last year around this time you told me that your biggest fear was that Ashley would not be remembered. I don't think you have to worry about that anymore. I, myself think about her every time I see you, not to mention all the other times I think about her. It also looks like to me just by this guest book that the same goes for alot of people. I still remember the last time I had seen her.It's just like it was yesterdy,in her pink sweatsuit, so beautiful and lively. She was so very sweet. I wish you and your family well.

Jo Tollenger

September 4, 2002

Dear Ashley,

It is a little over a year since your were called home. I talk with you often. I wanted to bring you up to date on a couple of activites. First I want you to know how very much I miss you and I always will. On August 10, 2002, Aunt Linda and I visted your resting place. Miss Carol and her family left you beautiful arrangement, a heart with pink carnations and a card saying how much they missed you and love you. I made sure your Dad knew about their very thoughtfull

act of kindness. We stayed by your side and I must admit I just cried, cried tears of my loss of you and all the many things I hoped we could do together. I do alot of things with you in mind, wanting to live up to what you would have expected of me.



Now let me share with you a couple of things your Dad has been doing. He started the landscaping project you and he had planned. He worked with the landscapers each day. It is going to be just as you invisioned it with your Dad. I stopped by one day and got the tour. I can hardy wait to see "Ashley's Place",I just made that up. I am not sure what you or your Dad were going to name it.



One last story to share. Here it goes! A couple of weeks before the yard project began, you Dad was outside and out of the woods came a stray cat. The cat, as the story goes, roamed the backyard. He (as we found out later) would follow your Dad, but he would always keep his distance. If your father walked to the right and stopped, so would the cat. Well anyway they finally got to the same spot and made contact. Your Dad began to feed the cat, need I say more? The Cat kept coming back and pretty soon the cat knew what your Dad's daily routine was, So on any given day - there was you Dad and the Cat. I met the cat once and I asked you father if he had named him yet, after all your Dad had taken him to the "Vets" and it looks like the relationship is for keeps. He replied he named the cat "SPOT". Spot" is not excatly a normal name for a cat. But I was glad a cat named Spot came in the life of a man named Gary, they seemed to have found comfort and friendship.They both seemed a loose ends, each a stray in their own way. So I will continue to let you know the on going saga of Spot and his friend.



Love, Aunt Jo.

Lee Ann Ranieri

September 1, 2002

Dear Jo and Family, I know the one year anniversary is close by. I just wanted you to know that you are still in my thoughts and my prayers. I lost my 17 year old granddaughter this past October. She never got to graduate. So I do know the void in your hearts. As I will never forget my Mindy, I will never forget Ashley either. I love you my dear friend Jo, and I am and will always be here if you need me.

I know God is holding our girls in His arms gently. Love, Lee Ann

John Russo

August 31, 2002

Gary,



It is and will always be hard to believe that your sweet Ashley is no longer with us. She was always so full of love and laughter. A year has gone by since her passing and I just wanted you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless

Timothy Ringgold

August 30, 2002

Gary,



I would just like to thank you and Ashley for accepting me like I was family. I enjoyed the times on the phone with both of you and the times at work as well. I will never forget the nickname you guys gave me "The love Doctor" She is still and will always be missed and you and your entire family is in my prayers.

Duane Smith

August 29, 2002

Gary,

Just wanted you to know that you and Ashley are in my thoughts and prayers - The Lord is and always will be with you.



God Bless -

Duane A. Smith

Brian Wallace

August 28, 2002

In Remembrance...

Gary and family,

One year has come and gone and although time may not seem to have the same reference it used to have, I pray the hurt lessens each day that passes by. I know that what ever time any of us have on earth is a gift to be cherished. The influence we have in that time is more far-reaching than any of us realize. May God bless Ashley and your family.

GARY BOWERS

August 28, 2002

GARY, MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND ASHLEY.

KIMBERLY EFFLAND

August 28, 2002

I want to let you know you and Ashley are in my prayers, I also have a prayer for you,,,just keep it laying around, it's helped bring peace to me at times,,,,O Lord, help me welcome the coming day in peace. Help me at all times and in all things to rely on Your holy will. During every moment of the day,show me Your will. Bless my contact with those around me. Teach me to accept all that comes my way with peace, knowing that You are with me, helping me, and that Your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by You. May I help and encourage someone who is in need. Teach me to act consistently and wisely, without hurting or emabarrassing others. Give me strenghth to bear the stress of today and all that may happen. Guide my will. Teach me to pray, and by Your Holy Spirit pray in me. Amen Your in the thoughts & prayers of me & my family,, In Christ, Love Kim

Kathy Keeney

August 28, 2002

Gary,

A year has come and gone, which probably feels like a lifetime. Prior to my entry in the guess book, I viewed the messages that so many friends and family have written. Ashley is truly in their thoughts and their hearts as she is with mine. So many beautiful memories... There are no words for such a loss and I know that the hurt never leaves, but I believe God chose Ashley because she is special. Know that I too can relate with your pain and just take one day at a time.

Denis Bronis

August 28, 2002

Both of you are always in my prayers,remember the parting but mostly remember the times together.

Jim Conrad

August 27, 2002

Ashley - one of the brightest stars in the sky! I will always wonder why the good Lord took her. She was a delight when she visited VERIZON where her Dad worked. The love they shared was truly special. God surely is taking care of her, as I know she is watching over the father who loved her so much.

Robert Lloyd

August 27, 2002

My prayers are with you and your family. My God give you strength and comfort durring your time of need.



Bob

Earl Harman

August 27, 2002

Gary and family,

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

May Jesus Christ bless you and give you strength.

Patricia Davis

August 27, 2002

Dear Gary and family,

There are many times throughout the year when your loss of Ashley is felt more intensely than others--holidays, the start of the school year, summer vacation and many more. I can only imagine the pain. I pray for your peace of mind and joy in your heart in remembering the happiness of those events passed. Ashley now sits in the lap of our heavenly Father and His arms embrace her and you. May you feel His love now and always.

Bill Curran

August 27, 2002

Gary,

I know it will never get any better but hopefully it will get easier. Ashley is always remembered in

my prayers.

Roy Mumey

August 27, 2002

Gary and Family,



I know that this has been a tough year and I just wanted to say that you are in my family's prayers. Ashley was loved so much and you were blessed to spend the 12 years of her life with her. Her memories will live on forever in many hearts and you can thank God for the beauty and laughter she shared in not only your lives, but the many people she shared her life with. The pain will seem like it will never go away, but be proud to have been her Dad, and live life to the fullest for you and her.



God Bless

Roy Mumey

Lee Ann Ranieri

May 12, 2002

Dear Jo and Ashley; today is Mothers Day and I just wanted to let you both know I was thinking of you. You are both so forever in my thoughts, and especially today. I will continue Jo to be here for you in your rememberance of Ashley. And Ashley, I will always keep you in my prayers. I truly feel your pain and loss my dear friend and even though my tears are not as many as yours, the ones on my face now are as big and many as before, for you. Sweet dreams little princess, until we meet again. Love, Lee Ann

Lee Ann Ranieri

May 5, 2002

Dear Ashley, I just wanted you and your Aunt Jo to know I was thinking about the both of you again. You are in my prayers dear one and you will remain in them always. Jo, you will always be in my prayers also. I know your heart has such a void there now; no words I can say will ease your pain, just always know, I will always love you dear friend and I will always remember Ashley. Love, Lee Ann

Tony Fields

May 3, 2002

Some things in life,

are rotten and just unfair,

some people get a good run,

others just don't get their share.



Life doesn't last forever,

sometimes its cut way too short,

try adding up the logic,

and at times it'll come to nought.



You would do anything for anyone,

you would have given them the shirt off your back,

you were kind, generous and caring,

they were qualities that you never lacked.



And some people live their life,

and they get their three scores and ten,

but some don't get to leave their mark,

and others die lonely old men.



But you will always be remembered,

I'm sorry that you were cut in your prime,

there can be no other explanation,

other than it was simply your time.



And everything for a reason,

even though it's not that clear,

but your spirit is with us,

you will always be near.



And so life must go on,

just like it has done before,

just know you'll always be with us,

yesterday, now and for evermore.



Copyright Allen Jesson :) 2001

Etta Hudson

May 2, 2002

Gary,

Although I only met Ashley a few times during her lifetime, she has touched the hearts of many people. I am sure that she accomplished the work that God had planned for her and now she is reaping her reward. Our family continues to pray for you and your family and just know this one thing....GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL NO MATTER WHAT!!

Jo Tollenger

May 2, 2002

Dear Ashley,

May 1 will always be a special day for the family. While you cannot be with us on this physical plan, I know you will forever be in our hearts and minds. I know you are aware of our continued celebration of your life. Yesterday, you father went to Bel Middle School and Bel Air Elementary School and made a contribuiton to both schools in your memory. Bel Air Middle will use the money for a display cabinet in the libarary. Bel Air Elementary will buy new books. In those books they offered to dedicate them to your memory. In a smaller way, I made a contribution so that childern who could not afford to go on field trips or buy gym sets could.At your grave I added a couple of new flowers. I also put a couple of flowes for those on eith side of you. I explained it was in honor of your 13th brithday. It was a sunny beatuiful day very much like you. Later in the day I met your father, Sharon and Hannah at the place you selected before on your special day. As I passed by the table we last sat at I could see you there and I saw your beautiful smile. The table was full of children. My heart was warm with the memories of you. I miss you. As I write this note, I can hear in the backround the song "Unforgetable" the one you and your dad used to sing together and pop-pop's favorite, indeed your are

unforgetable.

Love,

Aunt Jo

Shirley Edmonds

May 1, 2002

To Gary and Family,

We know what a special day this is and what a celebration it would have been for Ashley's 13th Birthday!

No matter what we plan , our Lord had other plans for this special angel in Ashley. To know herwas to love her! What a beautiful young lady!

Gary , you did a wonderful job in being both Mother and Father to her.

No one could have done it better!

Always remember that!!!!!!

My love and heartfelt caring goes out to all of you.

Know you have a special friend in me and I would do anything for any or all of you.

Today the sun is shining down on us and Ashley is saying"don't be sad, I'll see you again"



With Love,

Shirley

Kathy, Barry, &Lisa Tollenger

May 1, 2002

We treasured the time we had with you. You touched our hearts and we will never forget you. Physical existence can stop but love never does.

Lee Ann Ranieri

May 1, 2002

May 1,2002,



I Love and Treasure my friend Jo Tollenger. We have been friends for many years. I know how much she loved Ashley. I only met Ashley a few times at my granddaughters house. Her name is Katie Ranieri and she and Ashley were best friends. You are in my prayers Ashley, now and always. I am so very glad I was blessed to share even the few moments we had. You are truly loved by so many, and you are missed so deeply. Until I can share a moment with you again sweet Angel, you will stay in my heart. Love, Lee Ann

Rex & Nancy Caswell

August 21, 2001

Our prayers are with you. The Good Lord will care for you and keep you forever safe.

Jo Tollenger

August 18, 2001

Ashley was on loan to us from God. We had her for 12 years. They were wonderful years.She will remain in my heart for as long as I live. She brought joy and love to all of the people she touched. I am proud to be her Aunt Jo. I can think of no better title for me to hold. Ashley I miss you so much.

Elisa Pitrof

August 14, 2001

Ashley was a warm, loving child who will always be in our hearts. You will not find a kinder friend

Greg Johnstone

August 14, 2001

Ashley was a great classmate and an even better friend. I will miss her.

Glenn Donithan

August 14, 2001

Ashley was a terriffic friend to my daughther, Ashleigh.



You are in our prayers.

Sandra McBride

August 13, 2001

The unconditional love of a child is like sunshine. Ashley will always make our hearts feel warm.

Mary Riall

August 13, 2001

May the times of joy and laughter that Ashley brought to us never leave our memories, and may they be a comfort to all Ashley held dear.

Stan, Laurene &Brianna Nowakowski

August 13, 2001

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless

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