David Clark Ascher

Lieutenant Commander David Clark Ascher, USN, Retired, 89, husband of Barbara Burnett Jacobs-Ascher, passed away peacefully Monday, April 7, 2025 at his residence. He was born in Torrington, CT on July 11, 1935 to the late David and Nellie Clark Ascher, under the name of "baby boy Lappin" until his birth certificate was finally changed to David Clark Ascher.
During his early years he spent much of his time playing on the family farm with his brother Robert, as well as spending time at the airfield with his father. Upon graduating high school in Newfane, NY, David followed his father's footsteps by enlisting in the Navy. David served one year before receiving a Congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy in 1954. While attending the Academy, David excelled in academics and sports, playing on the "150 pound" football team winning two Army-Navy games in 1957 and 1959.
After graduating the Academy in 1959, he served on the USS Johnston (DD-821), the USS Lawrence (DDG-4) during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the USS Dahlgren (DLG-12) as a proud member of the "Tonkin Yacht Club", and the USS Jacksonville (SSN-699). He was a proud Vietnam Veteran and inspiration to many during and after his service to this country he loved dearly. He was a Life member of VFW Post 8545 in Smithfield, VA.
David retired from the Navy in 1982 serving more than 30 years of active service. He was hired as a civilian with the Department of Defense. He went on to become the father of the MTR Gold Disk program for the Navy. David retired on April, 30th 2024 serving a total of 72 years for his country.
David was an avid lover of American history and referred to himself as an "amateur historian" specifically but not limited to the American Civil War. David shared his knowledge by lecturing, and assisting authors and painters. He was an enthusiastic collector of books, paintings and other artifacts from the war. David also participated in Civil War reenactments.
He was a beloved husband, marrying the "love of his life" Barbara Jacobs-Ascher in May of 2012 in a small ceremony. He always put his wife and grand-daughter first. He never missed the chance to tell a story, give a history lesson, or attend a softball tournament. David also was a member of Suffolk Christian Church. He will be greatly missed and appreciated by all that loved him and were lucky enough to know him and "The Story of David".
He was preceded in death and welcomed home by his daughter Melissa "Lisa" Jacobs Noel, brother Robert "Bobby" and Robert's wife Judy, and son-in-law Rick Copeland.
David is survived by Barbara, his beloved dog Hailey, his children; David Clark Ascher, Jr. and Deborah "Debbie" Ascher Copeland, and chosen brother David Chu, son-in-law Gregory C. Noel, granddaughter Michaela Gabrielle Noel (Bradie Horrocks), great grandchildren Rush and Gracie Horrocks.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 2PM at Suffolk Christian Church, 216 N. Main St, Suffolk, with visitation an hour prior. R. W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home, Downtown Suffolk Chapel is serving the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to your local animal shelter or charity of your choice.
GO NAVY, Beat Army!