Remembering Bob Ash

The BEL Club is devasted by the loss of long time member and Charter President, Bob Ash. Girv Devitt gave a heartfelt tribute to our dear friend. “Bob was known as Mr. Rotary. He was responsible for taking the club from the idea of a few likeminded individuals to a newly chartered club. Over the years he held all offices including three terms as President. “

 

 

 

Big Bob was always focused on the community. He was instrumental in the development of the Bridgenorth Beautification Committee and for many  years organized the annual street dance fundraiser. He represented the club at the Bridgenorth Cenotaph for Remembrance Day year after year and most recently became a champion for the Youth Emergency Shelter, working with the club to collect food and hygiene products for the residents. Quietly and without recognition or fanfare, Bob saw a need and ran with it. He was instrumental in reviving the Chemong Lake Regatta which grew into the BEL Rotary Chemong Lake Triathlon, the maintenance and development of Rotary Park and right to the end, Bob took the lead co-ordinating the fishing  derbies that ran out of Rotary Park.

Girv finished by summing up the man and his impact:

“Big Bob Ash
A gentle giant
A man who always served his community
A charter member of BEL Rotary and its Charter President
Our Club’s longest serving member
A man who served our Club in every conceivable role
(including multiple times as president)
MR. ROTARY
A recipient of Multiple Paul Harris Recognitions (PH + 3)

 

We are all still shocked and numb at your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your beloved wife Jo and your family. BOB, you will always remain in our hearts and minds, YOU WILL BE MISSED, MY FRIEND.”

In recognition of Bob’s service and commitment a PH+4 will be presented to posthumously at a time when we can celebrate together and with Joanna.