Lucky Ashida Obituary

     Lucky H. Ashida, a beloved member of the Crowley County community and a dedicated educator and coach, passed away on July 14, 2024, at his home in Ordway, CO. Lucky was born to Eiroku & Toki Ashida on July 19, 1934. Lucky grew up north of Crowley on a small farm with his parents and 11 siblings. Life was fairly simple as a child. Work was not an option, but Lucky always made time for fun. While attending Crowley School, Lucky was a natural athlete and excelled in football, basketball, and baseball.

     After graduation, Lucky eventually joined the Army and was proud to be able to serve his country with his brother, Kazu. Upon completion of his service, The GI Bill allowed Lucky to attend Adams State College and earn a teaching degree. During this time, Lucky married Helen L. Gerlock, on Sept. 17, 1960, at the Community Baptist Church in Crowley.

     Lucky began his teaching career in the metropolis of Olney Springs for a year then began a 30-year stint at Crowley County Junior High School. Lucky was a favorite teacher of many students and he seemed to know how to intersperse life lessons throughout his Social Studies lectures, making learning fun. Lucky was probably most well-known for his coaching ability, though, and the competitive teams that he delivered every season.

     Throughout his life, Lucky touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Lucky used much of his retirement years to serve the River of Life Fellowship, where he was an elder. Lucky enjoyed breakfast each morning with many other seniors around the county, including his brothers. Lucky frequently visited shut-ins, as well as friends & neighbors. He was quick to offer a hand and wouldn’t turn down an opportunity to do a good deed. Lucky served because he loved – he loved his country, his community, his family, and most of all, his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

     Lucky is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Helen Ashida; children Jerry (Julie) Ashida, Gary (Angela) Ashida, Kelly (Greg) Wise; grandchildren Jarrod (Shannon) Ashida, Jeremy (Brittney) Ashida, Jayde (Jabez) Addy, Jordan (Astwin) Tavizon, Mason (Abigail) Wise, Andre Ashida, Bailey Ashida; ten great-grandchildren; siblings Hideko Shioshita, Henry Ashida, Judy (Joe) Chamberlin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

     Lucky is preceded in death by his siblings Hideo, Noburo, George, Mary, Sam, James, Rose & Kazunari.

     A Funeral Service to honor and celebrate Lucky's life will be held on July 19, 2024, at the River of Life Fellowship of Ordway. Visitation will be from 9:00-9:30 a.m. The service will commence at 10:00 a.m. 

     In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the River of Life Fellowship at 411 East 9th St., Ordway, CO or online at https://bit.ly/LuckyMemorial.

     Online condolences may be made at www.PeacockFH.com. Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.