David Leslie Ashley

A graduate of Northside High School in Corning NY, Dave went on to earn an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Corning Community College. He spent his career in Mechanical Engineering with Corning, Inc. He travelled extensively for Corning, working on projects in China, Mexico, India and at other Corning Inc. plants in both Muskogee, Oklahoma and State College, Pennsylvania. While in Shanghai, China, Dave and 2 other engineers designed and constructed a large brick barbecue at the American Embassy as a gift to those who would be working on projects in the future. Dave was also a member of a team of engineers who redesigned equipment in the assembly and conveying of glass tubing, for which he was honored with 2 patents for the redesign. Dave was highly respected in his field and was known throughout the plant as the one everyone called the "Go-to Guy". Dave was employed by Corning, Inc for 36 years before retiring and moving to North Carolina.

Upon retirement, Dave began the restoration of his 1932 Ford Coupe. Dave and Patti made many trips to car shows, following up on leads to find pieces he needed to complete the next phases of the restoration. After many years of effort, Dave completed the '32 Ford in 2005.

He was a member of the Cape Fear Antique Auto Club and the Antique Automobile Club of America. Over the years, he entered many car shows and won several 1st place awards.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Ashley and Georgia (Conover) Ashley Marmor; stepdad Harold Marmor and brother-in-law, Greg Nehring.

Dave leaves behind Patti, his wife of 44 years ; stepson, Marty (Jennifer) DeJoseph; stepdaughter, Melinda (Christopher) McMillan; son Brian (Paige) Ashley; daughter, Laura (Harold) Mullaney; grandchildren, Colin, Cole, Avery and Ashton; sister Carol (Tom) Kane; special brother-in-law, Hap (Diane) Nehring and many other relatives and friends.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of love and wonderful memories for his family to cherish. He will always be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. Heaven has welcomed another angel.

Per Dave's wishes, a private service for the family will be held at a later date.