Blanche Marie Ashbrook, lovingly known as Tutu, was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and friend. At the incredible age of 98, she peacefully departed this world in San Angelo, TX, surrounded by her adoring family.
Born on August 24, 1926, in Ryegate, Montana, Blanche lived a life brimming with adventure, laughter, and love. As a military spouse, she traveled the world, embracing new experiences with enthusiasm. Later in life, her wanderlust continued with her second husband, proving that a love for adventure never fades.
Blanche made San Antonio her home, where she built a life filled with cherished traditions and wonderful friendships. She was a fierce competitor on the bowling lanes and the golf course, always up for a lively game of bunco with her Emerald Forest ladies. A devoted San Antonio Spurs fan, she cheered them on with passion (and maybe a little coaching from the couch). Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found great joy in her Christ Church Episcopalian church community and Bible study group. But perhaps one of her greatest pleasures was sharing laughter, stories, and a glass of champagne with her beloved granddaughters and friends.
She was adored by many, but to her family, she was simply irreplaceable.
Blanche is preceded in death by her parents, James Frank and Bertha Clark; her brothers and sisters: Roy, Wilbur, Tom, Myron, Robert, Walter, Ina, and Viola. Her first husband, Alvin Evenson, Sr.; her second husband, John Ashbrook; and her beloved furry companion, Oliver.
She is survived by her loving family: son Alvin “Butch” Evenson, Jr. and his wife, Linda; granddaughter Lisa and her husband, John Howarth; great-grandchildren Ashley Hambright and her husband, Stefan, along with great-great-grandson Finn; great-grandson Brad Howarth and his wife, Caitlyn; grandson Clark Evenson and his wife, Jacquie; and great-grandsons Ryan and Jacob Evenson. She also leaves behind her loving niece, Leatha, and her many nieces and nephews and family in Billings, Montana; her many dear friends in San Antonio; and the wonderful new friends she made at Lyndale Senior Living in San Angelo—where she became famous for her unwavering love of chocolate ice cream.
A special thank you to her devoted caregivers, affectionately known as “Our Angels,” Stephanie Melendez and Shelly Lechuga, for their kindness, compassion, and endless patience. We are forever grateful!
A private memorial will be held with immediate family as she is laid to rest beside her beloved husband, John. In lieu of flowers, the family simply asks for loving thoughts and prayers in her memory.
Blanche’s warmth, wisdom, and playful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. So, raise a glass of champagne to our beautiful, spunky little lady—cheers to you, Tutu! We love you always.
