Edgar “Lee” Leroy Ashley, age 83 of South Branch, MI., passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. Lee was born on July 7, 1939 in Dearborn, MI., to the late Roy and Louise (Stinger) Ashley. Lee was in the Marine Corp and served his country honorably from 1956 to 1959. In 1960 he married the love of his life, Carole Ellen (Siementkowski). They had 4 children and celebrated over 55 years together, before Carole passed away in 2013. While living in Garden City, Lee was a revolutionary war re-enactor and performed in many demonstrations. He was also a fireman for Garden City and retired from that department after 25 years. He and Carole relocated to South Branch where Lee was an all around handyman and could fix anything. Lee was a very smart man who never failed to offer his opinion! He loved to travel and his children have many wonderful memories of going on vacation. He also loved word working and gardening. He had a Goldwing motorcycle and belonged to the Goldwing club and then transitioned to Harley motorcycles.
Lee is survived by his children, Ellen (Al) Trojan, Ilene (Joe) Arvay, Dan (Bonnie) Ashley, and Eric Ashley; brothers, Billy, Alvin, and Byron; sister, Joyce Evans; grandchildren, Cassandre, Lewis, Alexander, LeAnn, Leah, Mae, Grant, Luke, Wendy, Cacie, and Amber; 11 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Lee is preceded in death by his parents, his wife; brothers, Jerry and Bruce.
Per Lee’s wishes, cremation has taken place. He will be interned at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI., next to his wife Carole. The date and time for internment will be announced soon. An online guest registry is available at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com to share condolences and memories of Lee.
