Richard F. Ashcraft

Richard Greenwood F. Ashcraft Richard F. "Rick" Ashcraft, 73, of Greenwood passed away on August 14, 2025 at his residence. Rick was born on March 18, 1952, in Indianapolis to Richard and Margaret (Noone) Ashcraft. He was a 1971 graduate of Roncalli High School. Rick attended ITT Technical Institute to begin his formal training in engineering and received his associate degree in Architectural Engineering in 1973. Rick then went to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale to earn his bachelors in Industrial Engineering. While attending Southern Illinois, Rick also worked at AMAX Coal Company. Rick eventually began his engineering career at United Technologies: Carrier Corporation in Indianapolis. He started on the industrial side of operations and quickly transitioned to the manufacturing side for a majority of his time there. This is where Rick met the love of his life and his "Rock", Susan. During this time, Rick also began pursuing his MBA from Purdue University for which he earned 15 credit hours. In 1990, Rick continued practicing his engineer skills at Lithonia Lighting in Crawfordsville, IN. He was a Sr. Project Engineer for nearly 10 years until they relocated their corporate headquarters. Rick then finished his career serving at Aerofab in Indianapolis after nearly 15 years. He served in a few different roles over his tenure: Manager of Industrial Engineering, Logistics Manager and Continuous Improvement Director.

When not working, Rick enjoyed taking care of his home, lawn, trees and his neighbors. He was a man of simple pleasures and enjoyed getting to know people. While his son (Andy) was younger he would be as active as he could with coaching or assisting the coaching staff. He found joy in teaching and helping others. Rick deemed himself the unofficial mayor of his neighborhood. He was also known as the "Godfather of Gab" amongst his friends and neighbors. Rick and his closest friends came up with many different nicknames which he could be referred to as. These names included: "The White Gator," Dick Ashcraft and "Ricardo Grande Magnifico." Rick was loyal and curt to his friends and neighbors. Perhaps Rick's greatest pride and joy, after Susan, was being active and attentive to the lives and well being of his granddaughters. Showering with them with special treats and moments whenever he saw fit to do so.

Rick is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susan (Fuchs) Ashcraft; son, Andy (wife Tiarra) Ashcraft; granddaughters: Adley, Ellington and Ivy; brother, Mark Ashcraft; sister, Kathy Whittaker. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, (Steve Ashcraft) and sister, (Vicky Ashcraft).

A Celebration of Rick's life will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at St. Jude’s Gym/Family Life Center, 5353 McFarland Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46227, Visitation will be from 4:45 - 5:30 p.m. The Celebration of Life gathering will begin immediately following the visitation and will include a meal from one of Rick's favorite restaurants. Per his request, this event is meant to be a casual affair, a time to break bread, and share the joy, impact, and uniqueness of Rick's life throughout the various phases. September 4th was an anniversary of sorts - this was an anniversary of his commitment to trusting Jesus Christ as his Savior. As Rick put it, "I asked Jesus to forgive me of my sins and take me home when my time is ready."

Memorial contributions may be made to the HealthWell Foundation at healthwellfoundation.org. Please click 'Donate' in the upper right corner. On the next webpage, select 'Pulmonology - Pulmonary Fibrosis' from the 'Purpose' list.

Services entrusted to Wilson St.Pierre Funeral Service & Crematory, Greenwood Chapel, 481 W. Main Street, Greenwood.