Michael J. Ashley Obituary

A memorial event will be held on the family farm with the date and time to be announced shortly. Memorial contributions may be made to Scouts of America, c/o the funeral home.

Age 64 of Kalamazoo, formerly of Scotts, passed away Thursday, March 27, 2025. Mike was born in Kalamazoo, on January 1, 1961, the son of James M. and Arlene (Merchant) Ashley. Mike worked for Medallion Management in the maintenance department and went on to work with his brother at JRS for 20+ years. Mike was an avid sports fan and loved watching baseball, football and Nascar. His radio was always on, and he would listen to either a game or bluegrass music. He enjoyed watching the wildlife from his apartment window and was also a hunter and fisherman. He had just built a new deer blind and he was able to sit in this past season with his son. Snowmobiling with his friends and brother was an annual trip he enjoyed making. Mike had served as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 243. He had a huge heart and loved his family. He was affectionately known as "Grandpa Grump" by his granddaughters. Michael is survived by his son, Michael M. (Ashley) Ashley of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Zoey and Mackenzie; sisters, Evalyn (Duane) Soderquist, Carla (Richard) Gordon; brother, James M. (Joyce) Ashley; several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; and countless friends. Mike was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Patty Jo Donaghe and Robin Welburn.