Bruce “Kirk” Ashton, 83, long time former Durant, Ok resident, passed away surrounded by his family on May 9, 2024, at his home in Santa Fe, TX. He was born on December 10, 1940, in Belleville, KS, to Keith and Bertha Ashton. After serving in the Army, he married the love of his life, Liz Budler, and together they started a family. Kirk graduated with a master’s in communications from Ft. Hays State University in Hays, KS, in 1970, marking the beginning of his career in higher education. He taught communications and served as a standout debate coach at Garden City Kansas Community College and Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant.
Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, son Kent Ashton, granddaughter Marissa Plumlee, and sister-in-law Anita Dillwood.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Liz; his daughters, Kim Plumlee (Robert) and Kris Kimbark; grandchildren, Veronica Plumlee (Derek); Ashton Kimbark; Mary Kimbark (Miguel)and Nikki Kimbark; brother, Craig Ashton (Linda), and many cherished brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and lifelong friends.
Kirk was a down-to-earth, compassionate man with a heart of gold. He always prioritized maintaining relationships with friends, family, and former students. He had a passion for family, his faith, education, classic cars, KU basketball, and chocolate.
A Celebration of Life service was held on May 15, 2024, at Crowder Funeral Home, Dickinson, TX. Memorial donations can be made to the Kirk Ashton Scholarship Fund at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. https://www. se.edu/giving/
