Clarence Ashcraft
On Thursday, August 1, 2019, Clarence Ashcraft, surrounded by his family, passed into the Kingdom of God. He was 90 years old and had lived a very blessed life. His death came eight years after he had been placed in hospice the first time. He fought hard and made an amazing recovery. He lived the next eight years enjoying his family every day. When the time came, he left the earth with the same resolve and dignity that he displayed throughout his life.
Clarence was born in Ford, KY on November 26, 1928 to Kenneth E. and Della Greer Ashcraft. His father moved the family to Albuquerque in 1938 for the health of Della who suffered From T.B.
The family prospered in Albuquerque, creating a successful Home Building and Development company. Clarence was active in the community serving as the President of the Albuquerque Home Builders Association. He was also on the Board of Directors of Security Federal Savings and Loan, The Albuquerque Little Theater, and served on the Environmental Planning Commission.
Clarence was a master woodworker and loved building. The last house he built was in Pendaries, NM where he and Jean spent ten great summers playing golf and enjoying the many friends they made there. He loved life and lived it to the fullest. Clarence set a stage that allowed and encouraged each of his five children to become successful entrepreneurs. All have remained in Albuquerque.
Clarence will be greatly missed by his wife of 71 years, Jean; his sons, Ronald and wife, Laurie, Terry and wife, Marty, David and wife, Molly, Dan and wife, Rhonda; and his daughter, Lori Drury and husband, Dan. Clarence is also survived by his brother, Ernie; and his sister, Lois Philby and husband, Jan. He leaves 16 loving grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, as well as many wonderful nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give special thanks to his amazing caregivers, Helen Rice and Andrea Zamora. He loved their cooking and conversations.
There will be a Memorial Service on Saturday, August 17, 2019, 3:00 p.m., at North Church, 4700 San Mateo NE. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or a charity of your choice. Please visit our online guestbook for Clarence at www.FrenchFunerals.com