Obituary of Frank (Ashmore) Reesor

Frank Ashmore Reesor, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, lifelong farmer, and friend to all. He passed away peacefully at home on November 11 at the age of 92, surrounded by his family. Born on February 2, 1932 at his family homestead in Markham, Ontario, he was known for his steadfast work ethic, passion for farming, and constant devotion to his family and friends.

The Reesor Family were one of the original settlers to the region in 1804. Ashmore was proud of his heritage and the 7th generation Reesor to continue the uninterrupted legacy of farming on the original settlement land. He started his farming career at a very young age and continued running the farm into his 90’s. He was able to enjoy his final ride in a John Deere combine this October while harvesting soybeans, his life was complete!

He was a proud member and trustee of Locust Hill United Church which was built by his grandfather. He was an integral part of the Reesor Family in Canada Executive. He cherished his 45 years at the Markham Fair helping run the Special Antique Engine Display, enjoyed his time at the hunting camp in Maynooth with his friends, and fondly recalled his trips out West visiting extended family and their ranches. Tinkering with flywheel gas engines and playing cards with his closest friends during the off season and his involvement with Markstone Investments greatly contributed to his fulfillment over the years.

Ashmore is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy Marie (née Cowan), and his sister, Esther & Harry Lewis. He was the beloved father of Bob & Yvonne, Bill & Cheryl, Lois & Andy, and Lynn & Scott. Cherished grandfather of Shawna & Lucas, Perri & Dan, Kira, Brett, Ian, Kimberly, Laura, Adam, Ashton, Katie, and Erin, and great-grandfather of Violet and Cooper. Predeceased by his parents, Frank Armstrong and Gladys Adrene (née Sanderson) and his brother John & Claire Reesor, he will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Dr. Elizabeth Mui at Seniors Home Support, Ashmore’s amazing care team of doctors, and our dear friends Elena, Margarita, and Josephine who contributed greatly to his quality of life the past several years.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ashmore’s life at the Dixon-Garland Funeral Home on Sunday, November 17th between 1:00pm - 5:30pm. A funeral service will be held at the Rouge Valley Mennonite Church on Monday, November 18th, at 1:30 pm. A reception will follow at the church. A private family burial will take place at the Locust Hill Cemetery on Tuesday.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ashmore’s memory may be made to the Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation or the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Personal condolences may be shared at www.dixongarland.com. 

Zoom link to service : CLICK HERE