Arthur M. Ash, Jr. Has Passed Away – Obituaries

In Loving Memory of Arthur M. Ash, Jr.

Arthur M. Ash, Jr., aged 89, of Highland Township, Chester County, departed this earthly life on Monday, September 18, 2023, at the Chester County Hospital in West Chester, PA, surrounded by the love of family and friends. He was the devoted husband of Joanne Mellinger Ash, and their enduring love spanned 39 beautiful years. Born in Coatesville, PA, he was the cherished son of the late Arthur M. Ash, Sr. and Helen Hamilton Ash.

Art’s heart was forever tethered to the place he called home, having been a lifelong resident of the area. He graduated from the former Scott High School in Coatesville in 1953, embarking on a remarkable journey. For 43 dedicated years, Art served with unwavering commitment at Lukens Steel Company in Coatesville, retiring in 1996.

Among his many accolades, Art was a proud member of the track team that achieved State Championship glory in 1952. His event was pole vaulting, and the team’s legacy is immortalized in the Coatesville Sports Hall of Fame. He also lent his strength and spirit to the high school football team.

Beyond the realm of athletics, Art’s heart embraced the joy of various sports, from golf to bowling, darts, and pool. He participated in countless local leagues, amassing a treasure trove of awards and trophies that spoke of his skill and dedication.

In the quiet of the woods, Art found solace in his hunting camp, aptly named ’10 Buck Two.’ His heart resonated with the call of the wild, particularly when it came to turkey hunting, and he relished moments spent by the water’s edge, fishing with a heart full of contentment.

Among the many chapters of Art’s life, perhaps one of the most tender was his companionship with his beloved cat, Mittens. A loyal friend and constant presence, Mittens shared Art’s joys and sorrows, providing comfort in the simple act of being there.

Art’s sense of community extended to his lifelong memberships in the West End Fire Company in Coatesville, the Coatesville Polish American Club, and the Parkesburg VFW Post #4480.

Art’s legacy continues through the love he leaves behind. He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne, and two children; Richard Ash of Port Orange, Florida, and Audrey Procyson and her husband Jim of Confluence, PA. The light of his life also shines through his two grandsons, Chad Perry and wife Diana of Lititz, PA, and Corbin Perry and wife Rachel of Compass, PA. Four great-grandchildren, Cole, Caleb, Colin, and Maggie, carry forward his spirit. Art is also remembered fondly by two sisters; Peggy Redmond of Middletown, MD, and Patsy Chilla of Downingtown, PA. He was preceded in death by a son, Jeff Ash, three sisters: Jackie Weaver, Becky Nuse, and Shirley Ash, and one brother, Chester Ash.

A celebration of Art’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at the Wilde Funeral Home, 434 Main St., Parkesburg, Pennsylvania, 19365. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation period starting at 10:00 AM, preceding the service. Art’s final resting place will be the Hephzibah Baptist Church Cemetery, situated in East Fallowfield Township.

In honor of Art’s generous spirit, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Octorara Area Food Cupboard. As we bid farewell to Art’s earthly presence, let us remember the warmth of his smile, the strength of his spirit, and the love that will forever endure in our hearts. In the embrace of these cherished memories, may his soul find eternal peace.