Obituary of Mary Lorraine Ashley

Mary Lorraine Ashley

 

February 12, 1926 – May 12, 2023

 

Born in Roslyn, Washington to Mary Pasquan Krahenbuhl and Samuel Krahenbuhl, Mary grew up in Roslyn attending school with her three older siblings: Louise, Jake, and John. While in high school, Mary worked in the local Roslyn ice cream shop where she developed her love of soft serve vanilla ice cream cones. A dedicated student, she continued her education and graduated from St. Elizabeth’s School of Nursing in Yakima.

 

Her brother Jake's wife, Lorraine, intended to introduce Mary to a classmate from Easton School, before she had a chance Mary and Melvin met on their own at a local dance. Thus began the courtship of Mary and Melvin B Ashley. They were married in the Roslyn Immaculate Conception Church on September 11, 1948.

 

Mary and Melvin began their life together with Melvin running the Texaco gas station and grocery store in Easton, Washington where he grew up. They moved on to Seattle to run another grocery store, but soon decided the grocery business was not for them. Shortly after, Melvin began work with the Northern Pacific Railroad which took the couple to Auburn, Washington, where they raised their three children, made lifelong friends and became members of a loving community. Mary practiced nursing, specifically as a surgical nurse, at Auburn Hospital while her children were growing up. She made many friends in the medical community. She also developed close friendships, taking ceramics classes and playing bridge in her spare time.

 

Time spent with family and friends was of the utmost importance to Mary. Her family loved camping and spending time visiting the forests and beaches of Washington. She especially loved camping at Grayland State Park and along the Washington Coast. Closer to home Mary appreciated opportunities to get together with friends for lunch or happy hour, occasionally indulging with a Bombay Sapphire gin and tonic.

 

Melvin and Mary had three children: Rae Ann Jordan (Lloyd), both deceased; Pat Ashley-Hill (Ed); and Paul Ashley, who was caregiver for Mary in her later years. Mary also had two grandchildren, Kerry Rogahn (Rick) and Dane Jordan (Lauren). She was blessed with three great grandchildren, Colette Rogahn (7) and twins Amara and Jensen Jordan (1).

 

Mary was the beloved matriarch of her family and made each member feel special and loved. Her presence will be deeply missed at holidays, family gatherings, and over phone calls just to chat. We were fortunate to have her with us for so many years in generally good health and with a good sense of humor and quick wits. Mary – Mom – Grandma – GG will be remembered fondly by all who were lucky enough to spend time in her warm inviting presence.