ASH, Anthony “Tony” Ash

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Anthony (Tony) Joseph Ash. Tony died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on May 31st, 2025 in Ajax, Ontario, at the age of 70, after many years of living courageously with complex health issues.

Predeceased by his parents Elizabeth (Betty) and Daniel (Danny) Ash and brother Kevin Ash, he leaves behind a family who adored him.

Beloved father of Amy (Daniel), Heather (Conrad), Karen (Jeffrey) and Luke (Holly). Loving grandfather to Chloe, Aria, Liliana, Connor, Mikayla, Ava and A.J. Much loved brother to Sean (Judy), Kevin (Madeleine), and Kelly (Doug). Uncle and Great Uncle to many. All of whom will deeply miss his kindness, humour, and gentle spirit.

Tony was a loving, caring and supportive father with a strong sense of humour that always left others smiling. He had a special gift for connecting with people – especially children and those with disabilities or neurodiverse minds – treating everyone with genuine love, patience and respect. His compassion was not just a trait but a purpose. Throughout his life, he worked as a Resident Care Aide, a Senior Research Officer, and an Educator of children with diverse needs. His work was rooted in respect – for the individual, their dignity, and their unique way of experiencing the world. Rather than trying to change people to fit a system, he focused on changing systems, environments, and attitudes to better support people. He believed in helping individuals navigate the world as themselves, and in helping others learn how to meet them with understanding and care.

Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, his heart remained tied to his family town of Harbour Grace, Newfoundland. He loved to fish, canoe and ride his motorcycle. Cottaging was a favourite pastime. He had a sharp mind and a mischievous grin at the card table – particularly when playing poker or 9/5/2 – and could never start the day without a good cup of black coffee and the Toronto Sun crossword or a challenging Sudoku.

He lived with humour, loved with his whole heart, and made the world a better place simply by being himself.

Tony was very much loved and will truly be missed. We will honour Tony and his life’s legacy at his funeral on Saturday, June 14th, 2025 at McEachnie Funeral Home, 28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax, ON L1T 2Z7.

Visitation: 11AM-1PM – Service: 1PM-2PM – Reception: 2PM-5PM

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Grandview Kids, or a charity close to your heart.

McEachnie Funeral Home

• Visitation

  McEachnie Funeral Home

  Event Times:

  14-Jun-2025 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Funeral Service

  McEachnie Funeral Home Chapel

  Event Times:

  14-Jun-2025 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM