Edward ASHLEY Sr.

ASHLEY Edward Messenger Sr., left this world at 10:55 A.M. on September 24, 2002 as the result of heart complications. Ed, the second son of Kendall M. and Hazel (Berg) Ashley, was born on January 16, 1919, in Gary, IN. He was the brother of Norman A. Ashley and Kendall M. Ashley Jr. Ed graduated from Emerson High School in Gary, IN and attended Hanover College, Valparaiso and Purdue Universities gaining technical skills in drafting and mechanical engineering. He served honorably in the Army Air Forces during WWII in India and Burma in a photo reconnaissance unit. After the war he worked for Buda Diesel, Kastendieck Architects, and Rognes Construction of Gary, IN. He moved his family to Cincinnati in 1952 to work for General Electric as a valued employee until his retirement in 1981. Ed had many notable accomplishments while with GE, including technical support to the GE's Air Force nuclear aircraft engine program, nuclear reactor programs for th Navy and space systems, aircraft engine design for the USAF's XB-70 and the U.S. supersonic transport, and plant information technology engineering and management support. He also served on the Mechanical Engineering Design and Drafting Council of the Cincinnati Technical College from 1970-1978. Following a strong family tradition, Ed was a devoted Christian, active member of the Presbyterian Church for many years and a good friend and neighbor to many. He was a skilled carpenter, artist, and handyman helping his family with many home projects over the years and passing on many valuable skills to his children that they will always cherish. He traveled extensively all over the world while visiting his children serving their country in Japan, England, Germany, Honduras, and Zimbabwe. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Dr. Marilyn F. (Haynes) Ashley, four children: Edward M. Ashley III of Yorktown, VA, Ann F. Rice of Middletown, OH, Rebecca J. Pocisk of Utica, MI, William K. Ashly of Wyoming, OH, and 11 grandchildren. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all. Visitation will be at Schmidt-Dhonau Funeral Home, 10980 Reading Road, Sharonville, OH (ph 513- 948-1113) on Thursday, September 26th from 5:30-8 P.M. There will also be a service on Friday, September 27th at the same location at 1 P.M. with burial immediately following at the Crown Hill Memorial Park at the corner of Pippin and Kemper Roads in Forest Park, OH. Please send memorials to Hanover College, PO Box 108, Hanover, IN 47243-0108.