Kenneth Ashley

Kenneth Dale Ashley, age 63, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026, with his loving daughter by his side.

Ken was born on June 30, 1963, in Astoria, Oregon, to Alice Sue Clayton and Clayton Dale Ashley. He spent his early childhood in Oregon before moving to Idaho and eventually settling in Utah, where he built a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and an unwavering devotion to family.

From a young age, Ken embraced life with energy and determination. He played football throughout his school years, was an accomplished skier, and spent many years riding motocross. He loved the outdoors and found joy wherever adventure could be found, whether on the slopes, on a dirt bike, or around a campfire with family and friends.

That same drive carried into his career. A gifted craftsman and natural handyman, Ken had a remarkable ability to fix almost anything. He was especially skilled in plumbing and welding and proudly dedicated 35 years of service to Union Local 140. His strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to lend a hand earned him the respect of everyone who knew him. If something was broken, Ken could repair it. If someone needed help, he showed up. It was simply who he was.

On Valentine's Day in 1987, Ken married the love of his life, Jill McKee. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, hard work, and unconditional love. Their greatest blessings were their two children, Jack Dale "JD" Ashley, Jacqueline Brigette Ashley Parkin and their beautiful grandchildren.

Family was always at the center of Ken's world. He and Jill created a home filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. Weekends were often spent camping, enjoying the outdoors, and making the cherished annual Fourth of July trip to Lava Hot Springs. As a husband and father, Ken was steady, dependable, and fiercely devoted. As a grandfather, he found some of life's greatest joys. Whether it was a sporting event, school program, recital, or celebration, Ken was there. His family never had to wonder if he cared, because he showed them every day through his presence, support, and unconditional love.

In June 2020, Ken experienced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved son, JD. In 2022, he endured another unimaginable loss when his soulmate, best friend, and wife, Jill, passed away. Losing both left an ache that never truly left him. Yet even through his deepest grief, Ken found strength in the people who still needed him most. He knew he had to keep going for his daughter, Brigette, and for the grandchildren who brought light back into his life. They gave him purpose, comfort, and countless reasons to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Though his heart longed for those he had lost, he never stopped showing up for the people he loved most. The love he carried for Jill and JD remained with him every day, while the love he shared with his daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren gave him the strength to carry on.

Ken is survived by his loving daughter, Brigette Parkin; his son-in-law, Spencer Parkin; and his treasured grandchildren, Ashley, Harlan, and Kimberly Jade Parkin. He is also survived by many beloved siblings, brother and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, generosity, and steadfast friendship.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Jill McKee Ashley; his son, Jack Dale "JD" Ashley; his mother, Alice Sue Clayton; and his parents-in-law, Jack and Reta McKee.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the University of Utah Palliative Care Team. During Ken's final days, your compassion, kindness, and dedication brought him comfort, dignity, and peace. Your care will never be forgotten, and your generosity of spirit will remain a blessing to his family.

While Ken's passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, there is comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with Jill, JD, and his mother. The love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the fierce devotion he showed his family will continue to live on in all who knew him. Ken's greatest accomplishment was never measured by the work he did, but by the lives he touched. He leaves behind a family who knew without question that they were loved, protected, and cherished. His grandchildren will grow up hearing stories of his kindness, his humor, his strength, and the way he never missed the moments that mattered. His legacy is one of unconditional love, and that love will continue to be felt in every family gathering, every camping trip, every act of generosity, and every memory shared. Though he is no longer here to walk beside us, the imprint he left on our hearts will remain forever.

The traditions Ken and Jill built together will live on through the family they loved so deeply. Future generations will continue gathering around campfires, celebrating the Fourth of July at Lava Hot Springs, sharing stories, laughter, and the values that Ken held close to his heart. In carrying these traditions forward, his family carries forward a part of him. His love, wisdom, and example will remain woven into the fabric of their lives, reminding them that the greatest gifts we leave behind are not possessions, but the memories we create, the values we instill, and the love we give. Though he is no longer here to walk beside them, his spirit will continue to guide family traditions, shape future generations, and live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be loved by him.

A viewing will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home, 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway, South Jordan, Utah 84095.

"The measure of a life is not in the years we keep, but in the love we leave behind. Ken's love remains woven into the hearts of his family forever."