Anthony L. Ashman

Anthony "Tony" L. Ashman, 79, of Benton Harbor passed away Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at Corewell Health Merlin & Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center, Stevensville.

A celebration of life service will be at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Service, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family from 4-5 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Those wishing to share a memory of Tony online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Tony was born on June 24, 1946, in Benton Harbor to John "Jack" and Virginia (Gustafson) Ashman. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1964 and was a member of the All-State championship basketball team. Tony went on to attend Central Michigan University, graduating in 1968. While working toward his master's degree, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served his country during the Vietnam War, stationed in Georgia from 1969-70.

After his military service, Tony returned home to work alongside his father on the family's Centennial Historical Farm, where they raised strawberries for market sales and U-pick for many years. In 1981, Tony began coaching the boys' and girls' golf teams at St. Joseph High School, a role he proudly held for 18 years.

On Sept. 19, 1981, Tony married Barbara Larson in Benton Harbor. He was a member of the Southwest Michigan Car Club and enjoyed golfing, woodworking and following sports, which he truly loved.

Tony is survived by his wife, Barbara Ashman; stepchildren: Candace (Steve) Seawood, Scott Dewey and Bill (Christy) Heyn; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Jenny (Jason) Grimm; and many nieces and nephews.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents.