Charles Ashcraft

Charles F. Ashcraft, age 86, of LaGrange, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, at The Orchard Pointe in Kendallville.

Born on Nov. 3, 1938, in Portland, Indiana, Charles was the son of Jonathon C. and Nellie G. (Ferguson) Ashcraft. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Charles — known affectionately as “Charlie” — dedicated his life to service, both in uniform and in his community.

Charlie dedicated his professional life to helping others, working for many years as a loan officer at Citizens Bank and Trust, Churubusco State Bank and Farmers State Bank. His integrity and compassion made him a trusted figure in the community. A devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange, Charlie served faithfully as both a deacon and treasurer.

His commitment to public service extended well beyond his career. For over 20 years, member and precinct representative for the LaGrange Democratic Party. He also contributed his time and insight to the Council on Aging Board, the county health board and numerous other local organizations, always striving to improve the lives of those around him.

Charlie is survived by his daughters, Jill Carmody of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Laura (Andy) Thompson of Zionsville, Indiana; his stepdaughter, Kelly (Kevin) Mikesell of Lowell, Indiana; and his stepdaughter-in-law, Hope Fry of South Euclid, Ohio. He was a proud grandfather to Nikki, Daniel, Max, Taylor, Mitchell and Evan; and a loving step-grandfather to Beth, Colin, Kirsten and Clark. Charlie also leaves behind five great-grandchildren; his sister Karen (Gene) Lasher of Old Hickory, Tennessee; and his dear friend Diane Cameron of LaGrange, Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Sara M. “Sally” (Sites) Fry Ashcraft; and his stepson, Kirk Fry.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial visitation on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 W. Michigan St., LaGrange. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, Sept. 8 at 11 a.m., officiated by the Rev. Kenneth Weaver. Charlie will be laid to rest privately at Green Park Cemetery in Portland, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the LaGrange County Community Foundation, 0045 N. 250 West, LaGrange, IN 46761, or the First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange, 200 W. Michigan St., LaGrange, IN 46761.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at fruripmayfuneralhome.com.