With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Kristine Elizabeth Ashley, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, on January 5, 2024, in Champion, Michigan. Born on July 2, 1952, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Frank M. Ashley, Jr, an Industrial Arts teacher and WWII veteran of the Army Air Corps, and Mary B. Ashley, a Registered Nurse, Kristine's early life was marked by the family's move to Gulfport, Florida when she was just two.

Kristine's journey was one of service and care, inspired by her roots and early experiences. Her beloved Grandma Berland moved in with the family in Gulfport when Kristine was in elementary school. After graduating from Boca Ciega High School in 1970, Kristine worked at a local nursing home, a year that kindled a deep-seated desire to pursue nursing. This led her back to Duluth, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts Nursing degree from the College of St. Scholastica in 1975. Kristine furthered her commitment to healthcare without stopping there by obtaining her Master of Science Nursing (ARPN) degree from St. Louis University in 2001.

Kristine's life was also marked by distinguished military service. She served actively in the US Army Reserve for her last two years at St. Scholastica and three years active duty from 1975 to 1978 at Ft. Polk LA and Fort Gorgon GA, retiring from the Reserves with the honorable rank of Lt. Colonel. Returning to Florida, she continued her life's work at Bay Pines Veterans Hospital until retirement in 2010. After her dad passed in 1993, Kristine lived with and provided companionship for her mom, who passed in 2008. Together, they enjoyed their Bichon Frise dogs, watched baseball, hosted family holiday dinners, and kept up with the lives of her nieces and nephews.

In 2016, Kristine moved to Champion, Michigan, drawn to the serene beauty near her parents' former summer fish camp and the family cabin. Here, she indulged in her lifelong passions for bird watching, quilting, golfing, boating, and collecting. Kristine's love for animals was evident in her companionship with five dogs and a cat.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and service, survived by her brothers Frank M. Ashley III (Patricia Jill) of Gulfport, FL, and Robert J. Ashley (Kriste) of Ft. Pierce, FL, her four nieces and nephews, and five great nieces/nephews and five cousins. Her final years in Champion were enriched by the friendships she cultivated, especially the tender care her dear friend, Kelly, provided in her last days.

Kristine's life was a tapestry of care, service, and love woven through her professional and personal endeavors. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. We bid farewell to a remarkable soul who made the world better through her unwavering dedication to others.