Ardis Marian Ashton

Ardis was born in Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA, to Inez & Frank Odle of Bellevue, WA. She joined brothers Philip, Willard and Glen and soon welcomed a sister, Muriel. Ardis attended schools in Bellevue, graduating from high school in 1939. She enrolled in Seattle Pacific College, taking the 3 year teaching course. She enjoyed playing basketball in high school and college as a forward. In her freshman year, she met her future husband, Richard Ashton. They married during WWII, while Richard was in the Army. Ardis taught elementary school for 2 years; the first in Elk Plain and the 2nd at Medina Elementary. Richard and Ardis started their family in 1945 and Ardis stayed home with their first child, Laurel. Four years later, son Richard was born and in 1954, Janise arrived. Dick and Ardis were members of Bellevue Presbyterian Church. Ardis served as a Deaconess and was active in Women's Ministries. In the 1960's, Ardis owned and operated Ardis' Art and Gift shop on Rose Hill in Kirkland. She was later employed as a secretary at First National Bank of Redmond.

Ardis and Dick enjoyed many trips to Hawaii & Europe, several cruises, and many road trips across country. At home, Ardis was an avid baker and cook who enjoyed countless hours in her kitchen, preparing food for her family.

She is survived by her three children: Laurel Saromines (Joseph), Rich Ashton (Rene') and Jani Ashton Priestley (Michael). Ardis also has 5 grandsons and 6 great-grandchildren.