Gary Ashton

ASHTON, John ‘Gary’, age 81 of Halifax, NS passed away peacefully on July 17th, 2016 at the Halifax Infirmary with family by his side. Gary was born June 12, 1935 to the late Helen (Hardie) and Courtney Ashton and spent his career with the Department of National Defence, retiring from its Management Study Unit in the 1990s. He was an active member of United Memorial and Hope United Churches, dedicating many hours to various committees and as a choir member. Gary’s passion for music extended to his time with Bethany Chorale, Atlantic Swells Barbershop Chorus and Chebucto Singers.

He enjoyed spending summers with family and friends at their cottage in Fox Harbour, NS, and was a longtime member of Northumberland Golf & Country Club. An active handyman, Gary always had at least one project on the go and taught his sons the importance of ‘measure twice, cut once.’

Gary was predeceased by his brother Ken and sisters Barbara and June. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Diane (Hopkins), sister Patsy Ashton, sister-in-law Janet (Wayne) Hollis, sons Steven (Jennifer), Brian (Sandy Yip), and grandchildren Aaron, Sophie, Thomas and Maya, all of whom Grampy was very proud. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be on Wednesday, July 20th from 7 - 9pm at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, NS. The funeral will be held at Hope United, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax, NS on Thursday, July 21st at 2pm, Rev. David Hann officiating. A reception will follow the service. Burial will take place at Fairview Lawn Cemetery. Sincere thanks to his family physician of many years, Dr. Robert Brown, and the caring team at the Cardiac Care Unit at the Halifax Infirmary. Family flowers only. Should you choose, donations may be made to Hope United Church, the QEII Foundation or the charity of your choice.