Michael was born on November 2, 1949 in Clinton, IA to Thomas and Geraldine (Christopherson) Ashton.

He grew up in Clinton, IA and graduated from Clinton High School in 1968. The fall of 1968, Michael enrolled at Iowa State University on a full ride football scholarship. On August 15, 1970, he married the love of his life, Sue Haskin, and they began their life together in Ames, IA while Michael finished college where he graduated in 1972 with a degree in History and Physical Education. Michael began his career in education and went on to teach for seven years before receiving his Master’s in Education Administration from the University of Northern Iowa and Superintendent’s endorsement from the University of Iowa. Michael spent the next 31 years in school administration. He retired in 2011 after being the Superintendent for both BCLUW and GMG School districts in Iowa.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Sue of Marshalltown, IA; children, Matthew (Jessica) of Sioux Falls, SD, Jeffrey (Joann) of Dundee, IL, and Mollie of Cedar Rapids, IA; and seven grandchildren, Jocealynn, Veronica, Michael, Arabella, Annabelle, Gabriel and Grayson, all of whom he adored and loved to spoil. Additionally, he was extremely proud to call Mickey Spooner of Clinton, IA, Dana (Don) Fragen of Forreston, IL, Daniel (Lynn) Ashton of Grand Junction, CO and Patrick (Kandy) Ashton of Osceola, IN his brothers and sisters.

Michael was a member of the Iowa National Guard, finishing his career as a First Lieutenant. He was also a member of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity at Iowa State University. As an active member of several educational organizations in Iowa, his main focus was educating young people and always stressing the need to do what is in the best interests of the children and their futures.

Visitation with the family present is planned for Saturday, September 25th from 4pm-6pm with a service and meal to follow at 6pm at the Mitchell Funeral home in Marshalltown, IA. There will also be a graveside service on Sunday, September 26th at 11:30am at the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clinton, IA.

Family and friends are welcome to attend both ceremonies.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Michael Ashton be directed to the Iowa River Hospice in Marshalltown or the Marshalltown Fire and Ambulance Department.

Michael had a positive impact on his family, friends and co-workers. He will be greatly missed by all.

Please remember him with love in your heart.

Michael and his family have entrusted their care with the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. For questions or condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.