Obituary of Perry Andrew Ashley

Ashley, Perry Andrew - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Perry on December 11, 2015 at the Valley Regional Hospital at a very young 58 years of age after a long courageous battle with cancer. Born in Dutch Settlement he was the son of the late Andrew and is survived by his mother Vivian (Hare) Ashley. Perry leaves behind to mourn him; his wife Wanda (Witzell), brothers Kevin (Patti) and Bruce (Sharon), his only and very special sister Sharon (Marc Bragg), son Ben (Kelly Peach), daughters Julie (Denis Melanson), Angela MacNeil, Amanda (Kevin Lesser). His grandchildren were his world, he deeply loved each of them and it was his deepest sorrow throughout his battle to know he wouldn't see all their milestones. His grandchildren are granddaughter Arielle, and grandsons Roman, Noah and Ethan. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Perry was predeceased by his previous wife Roberta (Bobbi) Drover. Perry was widely known throughout the province for his involvement and love of many sports especially hockey, baseball and golf. He was a true competitor, always showing fairness and true love of each sport. In 2014 Perry was extremely proud to be inducted into the East Hants Sports Hall of Fame as part of the 1973-74 Wrigley Midgets. It was a special weekend for him, to meet and socialize with his former teammates. He was a member of the Windsor Legion, a former big brother, a former Mason, a former member of the War Amps Program where as an amputee himself he met and mentored young amputees and a former billet Dad for the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles for many years. Perry was employed as Assistant Store Manager at Home Depot both in Sydney and New Minas. He considered Home Depot employees to be part of his extended family and enjoyed serving his customers, many of who will remember him fondly. Throughout Perry’s life he met many people and made many friends, he was an amazingly kind and giving person who touched so many lives. He always had a ready smile or laugh and was willing to lend a helping hand. For many Perry will remain forever in their hearts and will be deeply missed. He showed love and affection without bias and his personality was infectious. Special thank you to Dr. Merle McMillian, Dr. Karen Burch, Dr. Helmet Hollenhurst, Valley VON, Valley Home Care and the staff at the Valley Regional Hospital for their amazing care, attention and support. In addition, thank you to the staff of Home Depot in both New Minas and Sydney who never wavered in their support of Perry and Wanda, and to our loving neighbors Terri Lynn and Matt, Joanne and Derek, and Stephen and Amy. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Lindsay Annapolis Valley Funeral Home and Chapels. Visitations will take place on Tuesday, December 15th at 7-9 as well as on Wednesday, December 16th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 17th at 1:00pm at the Serenity Lindsay Annapolis Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Berwick under the direction of Rev Ruby Carter and Perry’s Cousin Rev Patti McKenna. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fidelis House in Kentville, Alex’s Safe Harbour in Halifax, or The Lodge That Gives in Halifax. May Perry’s infectious smile and laughter be shared with many on his next journey.