Jim Ashbaugh

James (Jim) Michael Ashbaugh at the age of 80 left us to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on the night of October 15th, 2025. He was surrounded by his family in his home where he wished to pass. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 34 years Terri Ashbaugh and his oldest daughter Joy Ashbaugh. He leaves behind three sons Michael Ashbaugh and wife, Gage Ashbaugh and Ethan Ashbaugh. He also leaves behind his youngest daughter Traci Toepperwein and her husband Jerrod Toepperwein who became like another son to Jim. He also leaves behind his brother Bill Ashbaugh and wife, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great friend Lydia Aguilar who has become family.

He was born in San Antonio on April 17th 1945. He joined the Navy and honorably served in Vietnam. After his completion of his military service, he joined the Elevator Union, and served for a consistent 37 years. He worked in the Austin and San Antonio local throughout his Elevator career. After retiring in 1999 he was nominated and confirmed as a honorary gold card member by the Elevator Union. Then he and his business partner Tom McCall went on to start their own construction business J&T Specialties.

He was an avid hunter and sports fisherman, that traveled many trips to Colorado and around the country to fulfill his passion.

After his wife's passing in 2009, he joined the board at Casa Helotes, and served as President and Vice President for a total of 13 years. Jim always put others first and never hesitated to lend a hand when someone was in need.

Most likely, if you knew him, it was because he had helped you in some way. He always put others first before himself, and continued to do so until his last breath.

He had such a loving and caring heart, that he adopted three children throughout his lifetime. He always believed blood relation wasn't a defining factor in his love for his children.

In the last 7 years, Jim was able to fulfill his life long dream of owning a 48 Ford Pickup, and restoring it as a frame off restoration. He put many hours into restoring his truck despite his many setbacks with his health. Because of his angel kidney donor, Alysha Munk, he was able to continue his love of working on automobiles for another four years. Although he did not get to complete his restoration, his daughter Traci, will complete the restoration with the help of his great friend Rubin Solis. His daughter will then take his beautiful candy apple red 48 Ford Pickup to car shows in his honor and to keep his memory alive. As our Dad would say, "it will be finer than frog's hair!"

Per Jim's request, his ashes will be spread in Colorado on top of a hill under a tree that he hunted from for many years. Thank you to everyone who took the time to come visit, and share memories with our Dad over the last few weeks. He cherished every single one of you, and it meant the world to him and his family. There will be no services, so please leave your memories here to share with others.

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