Clair Irving Ashby, 69, a resident of Countryside for 48 years, died suddenly July 28, 2004 while on a cruise in Austria with his high school reunion classmates, beloved husband of Barbara Ann, Copenhaver; loving father of Terri (Dan) Maddox; dear grandfather of Lindsay, Luke and Jake; devoted brother of Ted (Betty); fond brother-in-law of Jean (late Charles) Boston; dear uncle of Robyn Olson, Mark Ashby, Robert Boston, Susan (Robert) Hutyra, James (Amy) Boston and the late Thomas (Karen) Boston; also many grandnieces and nephews and lots of good friends. Mr. Ashby served in the Army from 1954-1956 during the Korean War. He was co-owner of Comstock Excavating in Hinsdale for over 40 years, a member of the Midwest Operating Engineers Local #150, a former stock car driver at Santa Fe Speedway, and a Certified Flight Instructor, C.F.I.I. He retired five years ago and enjoyed flying, fishing, spending time with his grandchildren and for the last few years, he really enjoyed buying cars at auction. During his high school years he was active in baseball, basketball and track at Lyons Township H.S. Therefore he was very active in the L.T.H.S. Alumni Committee. Mr. Ashby was a strong supporter of Special Olympics. He will be deeply missed by his family and many loving friends. Visitation 3 to 9 p.m. Friday at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Funeral 10:30 a.m. Saturday from the funeral home to St. Cletus Church, LaGrange, for Mass at 11 a.m. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to SEASPAR, 4500 Belmont Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515, Attn: Carol Kosek appreciated. 708-352-6500.
