Don Ashbaugh

Don Ashbaugh of Fort Wayne, passed away on October 1, 2024, at Kingston at Dupont. He was born on March 18, 1944, in Oakwood, OH, to the late Ray and Helen (Craft) Ashbaugh. Don was a beloved father, brother, and community member, known for his dedication to his family and his lifelong commitment to Dairy Farming. Graduating from Arcola High School and later from Purdue University, he carried the values instilled in him through his education and upbringing throughout his life. Don was married to Judy Kay Swoveland on December 19, 1970, in Fort Wayne. Together the couple raised their three kids on their dairy farm. Judy preceded him in death on January 21, 2022. Don was a life-long active member of the Acola United Methodist Church, now known as Arcola Community Church. He was a past member of the Arcola Lions Club. Don was a 10-year member of 4-H, he also held the honor of being a member of the National Dairy Judging Team and a member the FFA in high school. In his work, Don was a lifelong dairy farmer, dedicated to his craft and his community. His passions extended beyond his work, as he found joy in spending time with his grandchildren and attending gospel concerts with his wife, Judy. Don is survived by his daughters, Melissa (Larry) Ice and Lori (Paul) Nunley; his son, John Ashbaugh; his brother, Larry (Cynthia) Ashbaugh; his sister, Sue (Mark) Loebert; nine grandchildren, Emma (Greg) Ochs, Hannah Nunley, Ethan (Bethany) Nunley, Avery (Abby) Ashbaugh, Nicolas Ashbaugh, Connor Nunley, Theodore Ashbaugh, Lexi Ice, and Hudson Ice; a great-grandson, Charlie Ashbaugh. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. A funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, Arcola Community Church, with calling taking place one hour prior to the service. The family will also receive family and friends at the Sheets and Childs Funeral Home, Churubusco Chapel, on Monday, October 7, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Eel River Cemetery, Churubusco. Memorials to Allen Co. Alzheimer's Association, 6324 Constitution Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46804. Sheets & Childs Funeral Home has been entrusted with these arrangements.