Nelson Francis Ashline died on June 24 at his home in Springfield. He was 82 years old. He was born in Berlin, NH and moved to Concord MA as a teenager. He joined the Navy at age 18, serving on the Robert H. McCard in the Atlantic and Mediterranean Theaters shorty after WWII. The stories of his life as a young seaman in very turbulent times could entertain any audience.
With the help of the GI bill, he completed a BA from Boston University and then went on to earn a Master’s Degree and Doctorate Degree at Harvard University. His distinguished career in education spanned over 50 years as teacher, principal, administrator and policy developer at the local, state and federal levels. He retired from the Illinois State Board of Education in 1990 where he served as Executive Deputy Superintendent. He went on to work at the US Department of Education and Southern Illinois University before ending his career. He was a mentor to many, loved a good pun which he always embellished, and was a creative thinker. He brought wit, wisdom, and a reassuring presence to friends, family and colleagues. His enthusiasm for doing his best -whether in problem solving or in expertly mowing the lawn- made him the success that he was in all aspects of his life.
He will be missed by his devoted wife, Margaret (Peggy) Ashline, his loving children, Peter Ashline (wife Nancy) of Boone, NC, Suzanne Ashline (husband Michael Quarshie) of Southbridge, MA and Margaret Ashline of N. Kingstown, RI. He was a much loved grandfather to Heather, Kevin, Sarah and Allison. He also leaves behind two great grandchildren, brothers and sisters-in law, several nieces and nephews as well as his sisters, Patricia, Peggy and Maureen, and brothers John and Robert.
His family wishes to express their gratitude for the expert and comforting guidance of Diana Schafer, Director of Clinical Services for Interim Health Care, as well as the many caregivers from Interim who provided such warm and gentle care.
The family will host a Celebration of Life at Panther Creek Country Club on July 12 2013 from 4 to 7pm. Friends and colleagues are invited to join them.
Contributions may be made to The Springfield Schools Foundation, c/o Julie Hammers, 1900 W. Monroe St. Springfield, IL 62704 or to The Salvation Army, c/o Illinois National Bank, 322 E. Capitol Ave. Springfield, IL 62701.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd., Springfield. Please read the online obituary at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
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