avid Robert Ashcraft, 82, passed away on November 2, 2023, in Bellingham, Washington. Born on December 16, 1940, in Shinnston, West Virginia, David exemplified the hardworking, community-focused values of his native state throughout his life.
David attended school in Shinnston, West Virginia and later moved to California, where he graduated from El Camino high school in Sacramento, achieving All-City Honors in basketball. His academic and athletic pursuits laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He was a well-respected high school basketball official in the state of West Virginia for over 5 years. He was selected every year to officiate games in the prestigious high school state tournament at Charleston's Civic Center and the Catholic high school state tournament held in Huntington, WV on the campus of Marshall University.
David served in the US Air Force Reserves, dedicating himself to his county with the same vigor he applied to all areas of his life.
Professionally, David was a respected figure in public transportation. He began his career humbly as a Dispatcher for Greyhound in Baltimore, MD. He then went on to hold the position of General Manager at several transit authorities across the country beginning with, Central West Virginia Transit Authority in Clarksburg, WV. A move to the west coast was always on his radar and was selected as the General Manager for Vancouver Transit and subsequently the first Executive Director for C-TRAN in Vancouver, WA. David concluded his public sector career as the General Manager of Culver City Bus in Culver City, CA. His leadership and vision significantly impacted public transportation systems and the communities they served.
Beyond his professional life, David was passionate about golf, a sport he cherished and played with enthusiasm. His love for the game was second only to the joy he found in spending time with his family.
David was a beloved father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his sons, David R. Ashcraft Jr., Timothy J. Ashcraft (Trina), and Christopher S. Ashcraft (Valerie); grandchildren, Ryan (Hannah), Dane, Kylan, Jaren, and Jadyn Ashcraft, and Julia Parker; sister, Carolyn Garthwaite; sister-in-law, Fran Ashcraft; and several nieces and nephews, Ami Muilenberg (Bill), Aaryn (Mike) Rostvold, Arik Garthwaite, Greg Ashcraft (Michelle), and Kim Ashcraft (Warren Krantz). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet Shelton; parents: Robert G. Ashcraft and Alice J. Ashcraft; and brother, James G. Ashcraft.
A Celebration of Life is planned for August 4, 2024, at the Whidbey Island Country Club in Oak Harbor, WA where his family will gather to honor David's memory and legacy. His life was marked by dedication, love, and a commitment to the well-being of others, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
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