The family of John Benton Ashmore has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to be present to stand a Flag Line in his honor at his burial service, we will be privileged to do so.
John was born on October 6, 1922 in Sierra Madre, CA. John lived a long a full life, he passed away peacefully during the early morning hours at his home on Friday, November 19, 2021, with his daughters at his side, at the age of 99.
John served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945, he was honorably discharged as a Ensign (A1) L, U.S.N.R. where he served as a navigator on PBY medical rescue planes, Patrol Bombing Squadron NINETY-ONE.
During his military service, he met his wife-to-be Bernice A. Stelin from San Marino, CA. Both USC alumni, John and Bernice married in December 1944, had their first child Anita, in 1952; Lisa, in 1956; and Mark, in 1958. They lived in Pasadena, Altadena, San Marino and moved to Newport Beach, CA in 1997.
John was a traveler at heart, following his dreams to see in the world as early as 1937, when he and 2 other family members took a train to New York and an ocean liner to Europe, where they bicycled primarily in the British Isles, Germany, Austria and Holland. In 1982 he sailed his 29-foot sailboat, Spirit, along with his crew of 3, from Newport Beach to Hawaii. His love of travel carried on throughout his life, with trips—arm in arm with his travel partner, Bernice—to all of the continents with the exception of Antarctica.
An optician by trade, John carried on his father’s optical company, Donald C. Ashmore Opticians in Pasadena, California.
As a “retired” resident of Lido Isle, John still made his way up to Pasadena to work with his son at the business, and enjoy his 40+ year membership at the University Club, well into his 80s. John and Bernice were active members of the Lido Isle Yacht Club, Mariner’s Church, and the Oasis Community Center where they joined an exercise group and Bernice continued her painting lessons. Lido Isle as their true oasis, as they enjoyed socializing with their friendly and caring neighbors and fellow community members.
John was preceded in death by his wife Bernice and is survived by his 3 children Anita, Lisa and Mark, 6 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran.
NOTE: please observe all COVID-19 Rules, PLEASE HAVE MASK AVAILABLE IF NEEDED.Time Table for Monday, 06 DEC 21:1345 - Stage at Pacific View Mortuary and Memorial Park, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, 92625 (Park by flag in circle on the right, up the hill after entering gate)
https://goo.gl/maps/WkPba4C2ySUstXM8A1400 - Mission Briefing
1415 - Proceed down the hill to Chapel for Heros departure
1430 - Flag Line for our Hero as he is taken to his final resting place
R/C Mike "Joker" Courtright
So Cal Patriot Guard, Ride Captainmokynanapo@sbcglobal.net
714-321-3356
"Standing for those who stood for us"
Only 2 defining forces offered to die for you:
Jesus Christ, and the American Soldier:
One died for your soul, the other one died for your freedom.
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this will be your first mission go to the initial staging area and you will be briefed there by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or dress casually if you are driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
