Grandma Ashton's Memorial Service

In the beginning of January we went to Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin to remember and celebrate the life of Helen Eleanor Ashton, Shelly’s grandma. We got to spend time with cousins. It was an Ashton reunion that included Uncle Jim, Aunt Peggy, Jenny, Jeff and Doug Ashton (Shelly’s relatives). We spent time with Audrey and Anna Gilmore, daughters of Beth and Doug Gilmore and saw Uncle Chris Metzguer, Aunt Heidi and Uncle Chris Turner. We stayed in Racine, WI and enjoyed (I’m being sarcastic) the snowy weather. We visited Zion, IL where Grandma and Grandpa Ashton met and spent the majority of their lives together.

We looked at pictures of Grandma and couldn’t believe the resemblance to Shelly. Grandma lived a long life, she died when she was in her early 90’s. She was born in the United States, but as German as they come. Her maiden name was Miller (changed from Mueller when her parents immigrated to the United States). She met my Grandfather in Zion, IL and they dated for over 10 years. When they finally tied the knot, it was in secret because of religious factions within Zion. They were married for over 60 years and only separated by death. Grandpa was a paper salesman and traveled often for his job. He worked until he was in his mid-seventies when they finally made him retire because he was practically blind.


Shelly’s Grandparents were the definition of Great Americans. They worked hard, honored their family and loved their country. They often went without so that when they left this life, their surviving family would have something to remember them by. Their dedication to each other and our country speaks volumes in a world today where many have lost these most treasured and important values.