Louis O. Ash passed away peacefully at Harney District Hospital on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023.

Louis was born Aug. 19, 1930. He was raised in Harney County and lived in Harney County his whole life with the exception of when he served as a Marine in the Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Louis worked hard his entire life up until almost a year ago, at the age of 92, where he lived in the Aspens. Louis was a Buckaroo at Frenchglen and at the Steens Mountains, a Marine, a heavy equipment operator, he worked at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and worked for Edward Hines Lumber Company for 31 years. He also was the patron at Crane Union High School Dormitory from 1983-1995. 

Louis enjoyed spending time with his family fishing, hunting and camping. In Louis later years he took up wood working. Louis came up with the idea of inlaying sagebrush from his skills from his years at the Mill. Louis made beautiful picture frames, jewelry boxes, lamps and walking sticks. He sold them at generous prices. It became his passion. 

Louis married Joann Krueger on May 12 1951. Louis and Joann started their family and had four girls, Debbie, Lori, Tammy and Kelly. Louis and Joann were married for 37 wonderful years. After his beloved wife Joann passed away, Louis married Joan Mims on Oct. 28, 1989. They shared a great life together for 32 years until Joan passed away. Joan’s passion was quilting. While Louis was wood working. They lived in Drewsey and moved to Burns. 

Louis is survived by his daughters, and their families, Debbie (Don) Greenfield, Lori (Terry) Ott, Tammy (Ronnie) Carroll, and Kelly (Wesley) Land. Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even a great-great-granddaughter. All his friends and family members. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Crane Union High School Booster Club or Harney County Senior Meals on Wheels.

Louis’ service will be held Nov. 18, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Faith Baptist Church in Hines, Oregon.

Louis is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lewis D. Critchlow and Hanna G. Critchlow; his wife, Joann Ash; his parents, Elmer T. Ash and Wanda Ash; his wife, Joan Mims; step-grandson’s John D. Howard and Patrick T Howard.