Lucky Hidemitsu Ashida

July 19, 1934 – July 14, 2024

Lucky H. Ashida, a beloved member of the Crowley County community and a dedicated educator and coach, passed away July 14, 2024, at his home in Ordway. Lucky was born to Eiroku and Toki Ashida July 19, 1934.

Lucky grew up north of Crowley on a small farm with his parents and 11 siblings. Life was fairly simple as a child. Work was not an option, but Lucky always made time for fun. While attending Crowley School, Lucky was a natural athlete and excelled in football, basketball, and baseball.

After graduation, Lucky eventually joined the Army, and was proud to be able to serve his country with his brother, Kazu. Upon completion of his service, The GI Bill allowed Lucky to attend Adams State College and earn a teaching degree. During this time, Lucky married Helen L. Gerlock, on September 17, 1960, at the Community Baptist Church in Crowley.

Lucky began his teaching career in the metropolis of Olney Springs for a year, then began a 30-year stint at Crowley County Junior High School. Lucky was a favorite teacher of many students, and he seemed to know how to intersperse life lessons throughout his Social Studies lectures, making learning fun. Lucky was probably most well known for his coaching ability though, and the competitive teams that he delivered every season.

Throughout his life, Lucky touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Lucky used much of his retirement years to serve the River of Life Fellowship, where he was an elder. Lucky enjoyed breakfast each morning with many other seniors around the county, including his brothers. Lucky frequently visited shut-ins, as well as friends and neighbors. He was quick to offer a hand ,and wouldn’t turn down an opportunity to do a good deed. Lucky served because he loved – he loved his country, his community, his family, and most of all, his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Lucky is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Helen Ashida; children,n Jerry (Julie) Ashida, Gary (Angela) Ashida, and Kelly (Greg) Wise; grandchildren, Jarrod (Shannon) Ashida, Jeremy (Brittney) Ashida, Jayde (Jabez) Addy, Jordan (Astwin) Tavizon, Mason (Abigail) Wise, Andre Ashida, and Bailey Ashida; 10 great-grandchildren; siblings, Hideko Shioshita, Henry Ashida, Judy (Joe) Chamberlin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lucky is preceded in death by his siblings Hideo, Noburo, George, Mary, Sam, James, Rose, and Kazunari.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Lucky's life was held July 19, 2024, at the River of Life Fellowship of Ordway.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the River of Life Fellowship at 411 East 9th St., Ordway, CO or online at https://bit.ly/LuckyMemorial.

Arrangements were under the direction of Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory.