Our beloved Kazunari Ashida, 86, departed this life on Friday November 11, 2022, in Ordway, Colorado.

He was born on September 3, 1936, to Eiroku and Toki Ashida in Ordway, Colorado. He graduated from Crowley High School in 1954. Kazu went on to serve in the U.S. Army in Korea. After his service, he graduated from Adams State College with a degree in Education. He then taught in Las Animas Schools for 30 years. After he retired, he moved back to Ordway where he became quite the social butterfly, resident comedian and #1 Chargers fan. Kazu loved his family, dogs and a good meal. He was a kind, loving soul who was loved by all who knew him.

Kazu is survived by his brothers Lucky and Henry, sisters Hideko and Judy and many, many nephews, nieces, great nephews and great nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents Eiroku and Toki (Yuto) Ashida, his brothers Hideo (Amy), Noboru (Kathleen), George, Tom, Sam (Lila), James (Geneva), sisters Mary and Rose (Jack) Wilson and brother-in-law Kiyoshi Shioshita.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Crowley County Heritage Center in Crowley or the Crowley County Fire and Rescue on behalf of Kazu.