Lisa S Ash

Today, we mourn the loss of Lisa Ash, a beloved mother, wife, and friend whose warmth and joy enriched the lives of those who knew her. Born on January 28, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan, Lisa was the cherished eldest daughter of Peter and Teddy Shoemaker, who preceded her. Alongside her siblings—Keith (survived by Deb), Christy (Rob), and Deana (Scott)—she spent the golden years of her childhood roaming free on Walled Lake, a setting that mirrored her vibrant spirit.

Lisa met the love her life and lifelong friends at Michigan State University (go green!). She met Bill Ash at Chi-Chi’s restaurant, where he was kitchen manager, and she was front of the house manager: A love story in the making. Lisa knew that she had to date the coworker who was smitten with her when Bill was rejected from the club for being underage (he is five years her junior) but waited for her until the bar let out to make sure she had a ride home. The rest is history.

Bill and Lisa’s journey together took them all over the world; they lived in Australia and Belgium and traveled everywhere in between. Lisa never rejected the opportunity for adventure or to support Bill in realizing his career goals. Together, they had three beautiful children, Taylor, Tory (Marley), and Alyssa (Julian). Lisa was an amazing mother, who filled their home with laughter, love, and home-cooked meals. Lisa’s creativity and resourcefulness were unmatched; she had a gift for turning everyday moments into extraordinary memories, whether through her artistic projects, her welcoming home, or the way she brought joy to every celebration.

Lisa’s final moments were spent as she would have wished—held in the love of her family. She was cared for with compassion by the staff at Heritage Memory Care during her brave battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. She took her final breaths with Bill by her side on December 27, 2024, just before her 65th birthday.

Lisa’s services will be held at Pagenkopf Funeral Home in Oconomowoc, WI on Saturday, January 4th, 2025. Visitation for family and friends will be 10am-12pm, with a celebration to follow. In lieu of flowers, the Ash family asks for donations to the Alzheimer’s Association to find a cure so that no other family must endure this heartbreaking journey. Lisa’s legacy is one of love, adventure, and unwavering devotion, and her memory will live on in her friends and family.