Michael Ashton

“Stan the Man”

November 1, 1944 - May 8, 2021

Michael Vern Ashton passed away at his home in Lancaster, Ohio on May 8. The son of Dorothy and John Ashton is survived by family who cared for him beyond measure: Wife Toni (Shaeffer) Ashton; Daughter Amanda Ashton and grandson, Jude; Daughter Angela Sanders (David) and grandchildren Sidney, Addison, Jackson, and Casey; Stepson Zane Peterseim (Laura); Stepson Chase Peterseim; Stepdaughter Chelsea Swain (Ben) and grandchildren Cooper and Claire; Brother John Gregory Ashton (Eileen); nieces Chandra Ashton (Karen), Melissa Salva (Alonzo) and Rachel Ashton-Misciasci (Matt); nephews Matt Ashton (Jeni), Hari Ashton (Shauna); former wife and mother of his daughters, Sharon Ashton (Lynch), and numerous great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Richard Ashton.

Michael’s life was one of compassion, empathy, and advocacy. His expansive career in Social Work began as an advocate for children within Franklin County Children’s Services and the Rosemont School for Girls. His career path led him to continue service for those who struggled with mental health and substance abuse concerns. As the Clinical Director at New Horizons, a board member of the Fairfield County Mental Health Consumer Group, and through The Recovery Center, he worked tirelessly in partnership with those he counseled to empower them to improve their health and wellness. In times of crisis or for those who required a kind word of encouragement, he was always present.

When it was time to end his clinical career, Michael continued to give. He continued his life of service by passing on his knowledge and compassion to countless students who would eventually care for others. As the Department Head of Human Services Technology and an Adjunct Professor of Social Work at Ohio University - Lancaster, Michael excited his students with his dynamic style of teaching through relatable stories and experiences.

Outside of his career, Michael was deeply involved in his community. As a member of the Earth Angel Foundation of Ohio and the former River Valley Rods Car Club, Stan the Man was present to lay the musical soundtrack as community members gathered, shared stories, and supported each other for the benefit of others. Giving back to his community was of great importance to Michael and he did so graciously and without hesitation.

To say Michael will be missed in an understatement. He was an artist and a musician, always willing to share his talents, obscure facts, and trivia with anyone who was lucky enough to sit and listen for a moment. His light, stories, humor, kindness, calming presence, support, and so much more will be remembered by so many. Simply, he was an amazing man and the world was a much happier place when he was here. Thank you, Michael - for everything.

Please consider donation in lieu of flowers to the following:

Earth Angel Foundation of Ohio Inc (www.earthangelfoundation.org)

PO Box 333 Circleville, Ohio 43113

FairHope Hospice (www.fairhopehospice.org)

282 Sells Rd, Lancaster, OH 43130

Calling Hours will be held Thursday, May 13th (5pm – 8pm) and Friday, May 14th (10am – 12pm) at Halteman-Fett & Dyer Funeral Home in Lancaster, Ohio. When attending, please follow all Covid protocols as outlined by the facility.