Celebrating the life of our Founder, William A. Ashe

William A. Ashe
1931-2016
Service, Sacrifice, and Safe Water

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…” 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

A Memorial Service for Bill will be held on January 7, 2017
at Bethany Church of Sierra Madre
Click here to RSVP

Friends of Lifewater,

It is with a mix of deep sadness and great joy that we announce the passing of Lifewater International’s Founder William A. Ashe (“Bill”), yesterday, 06 December 2016. For those who knew and interacted with him, you will remember Bill for his sharp mind, creative spirit, and deep compassion.

Fueled with a clear biblical mandate to ‘love his neighbor as himself,’ Bill began organizing trips in the 1960’s and 70’s to provide safe water to vulnerable children and families in Mexico and the Navajo Nation. He did so with great love and enjoyed the opportunity to share the reason for the hope that he had in Jesus Christ.

Never did Bill imagine that these humble efforts would grow into Lifewater International, a Christian non-profit organization that would serve more than 2.5 million people across 40 countries and 40 years with safe water and improved hygiene/sanitation.

Three weeks ago, my family joined Bill’s at a reunion in Los Angeles. He was weak but in good spirits. His mind was still quick and active. During dinner we talked about drill rigs, community strategies, volunteers, and all things Lifewater. He told me stories of crazy ways that they would get water out of the ground all those years ago! That would be the last time we would talk ‘shop’ on this side of heaven. I’m going to miss those conversations. Even more, I will miss Bill.

Bill is survived by his wife of 64 years (Lorraine), his four children (Anna, Gene, Don and Kevin), and his 14 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren.

On behalf of the entire family at Lifewater International, Bill, we love and will miss you. Thank you for modeling what it means to love Christ and to serve him among the most vulnerable. We will celebrate your life and legacy in our daily work to provide safe and sustainable water to every child – for the glory of God and the good of all people.

Respectfully,

Justin Narducci
President/Chief Executive Officer
Lifewater International