Ashley Robert Ames
Ashley Robert Ames, age 47, of Haslett, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. (Recalling his sense of humor, he would also like you to know he was born in 1975 on April Fool’s Day.) He was a graduate of Okemos High School, class of 1993, and subsequently began to follow-up on his interests in writing music, playing music, and experimenting with technology. He saved his money and bought one of the first Gateway 2000 computers available to the public.
His childhood was well-spent with friends playing with Lego’s, all kinds of card and board games, and wonderful summers with family and friends at Gun Lake. Ashley and his sister, Amy, spend many hours of fun swimming in the pool and the lake as often as they could. Early on he became a self-taught computer geek, later using his electronic talents to acquire a series of professional opportunities.
When Colorado called to him, he moved to Boulder, and his love of nature, photography, hiking, and camping elevated his artistic life for several years until he returned to the Lansing area in 2020 to become employed by the State of Michigan as a Technology Analyst.
Preceded in death by his father, Paul Gene Ames, and his beloved grandmother, Dorothy Snyder Reames, he is survived by his partner, Jamie Michelle Southwood; his daughter, Adalynn Ames; his mother and step-father, Barbara and Bruce Champion; his sister, Amy Ames McLeod (Craig); his step-sister, Cara Champion Gruber (Rick); his step-brother, J.B. Champion; plus three nieces and two nephews, Keely, Teegan, Ellianna, Hans, and Greta; and his two very special cousins, Sherry and Steve Jaqua.
The family would like to thank the Sparrow Hospital doctors and nurses on the 3rd floor CV-ICU for their compassionate and tender care.
There will be no service.
Anyone choosing to make a donation should give to Craig Hospital, Englewood, CO, to assist people recovering from Traumatic Brain Injuries.
Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.
Craig Murray
January 13, 2023 at 4:01 pmMy sincere condolences to Ashley’s family. I had the pleasure to work with Ashley at the Office of the Auditor General. He had a very gentle demeanor and made sure any issues were resolved to your satisfaction. May he rest in peace.
Nancy Bandfield
January 13, 2023 at 6:40 pmAshley was just that kind loving soul that was a pleasure to know. I always loved his smile and fun personality.
Our prayer for you all as you have this new hole in your hearts.
Sincerely,
Nancy and David Bandfield
Sue Block
January 13, 2023 at 7:27 pmBarb my heart goes out to you and your family at Ashley’s passing. Will keep you in my prayers and send you my love in hopes to ease your healing. Sue Block
Pat Elmo
January 14, 2023 at 1:14 pmBarb, I am so sorry to read about your son . You and I worked together when you were pregnant with Ashley at Michigan National Bank. I will be thinking about you and keeping you and your family in my prayers!
Carissa Hedley
January 15, 2023 at 12:02 pmMy heart goes out to Ashley’s family during this time. I got to know Ashley through work at the Office of the Auditor General. He was the kind of guy who became a quick friend and you felt like you knew him forever. He was so talented not only in his job but also in his paintings. He was passionate about what he did and loved showing his paint pourings and discussing techniques. He had such a zest for life and will be greatly missed.
June Mason Kenfield
January 15, 2023 at 10:08 pmDear Barb,
I’m so sorry to hear that Ashley has passed. I’m sure he was a light in your life and he will be missed by you and many others. Blessings and prayers for you and your family.
Ginger Penning
January 16, 2023 at 9:16 amI was saddened to learn of Ashley’s passing, as were my children. I assure you of my thoughts and prayers as you walk this grief journey
Paul Green
January 17, 2023 at 10:58 amAshley was one of the nicest persons I have known with the Office of the Auditor General – a truly good guy. He was always very professional and helpful. We are all so saddened by his loss, and he will be truly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him. Our prayers go out to his loved ones.
Michele Novak
January 18, 2023 at 11:47 amPrayers to Ashley’s family and friends. He was a truly kind and helpful person. I’m so thankful I was able to get to know him while he worked at the Auditor General. He was always willing to help. And I loved looking at his paintings and hearing him talk about them and his family.
kary knudtson
March 31, 2023 at 4:12 pmHe will be missed …rip brother…
Sara West
June 12, 2023 at 3:08 amAshley meant the world to me in high school. He taught me about music and art, and was my best friend during our time at Okemos High School. I wish his family peace. I love him, and always will.
Sara West
Nori Saito
July 30, 2024 at 6:43 pmI spent most all of my high school years with Ashley, to say he was my best friend is a gross understatement. I considered him as my soul mate despite us parting in life later in life. I am terribly heart broken by this news. You were the best, the smartest person I have ever known. We were two peas in a pod as your mother has said, and this will forever remain true. I love you dude, You are always in my heart. Rest in peace Ash.