Surrounded by his loving family, Nolton “Nolt” Hawes Ashley passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024. Nolt was born in Oakland, CA on August 18,1925. He was the son of Dr. Nolton Niyo Ashley and Zeta Hawes Ashley and brother to his older sister Barbara. Nolt attended University High School in Oakland.

During World War II, at the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. Nolt served aboard the USS Menkar (AK123), where he spent three years delivering troops, goods, equipment, and his wonderful sense of humor to various islands in the South Pacific. After his Honorable Discharge in 1946, he continued his studies at the University of California, Berkeley.

Following his time at Cal, he dedicated 40 years to a successful career in sales management at American Brass & Copper and its successor companies. There he excelled at customer service and delivered a friendly smile to go with it.

Nolt met the love of his life, Joy Ann Martin, on a blind date in 1941. He impressed her so much that she agreed to a second date the following evening. Their amazing relationship spanned 83 years. The marriage of 76 years was a partnership built on love, honesty, mutual respect, and a good dose of laughter. Together they raised a daughter, Jan, and son, Douglas.

Nolt and Joy had a love for travel. They explored the world by embarking on over 50 cruises to ports on 6 continents. Hand in hand they explored exciting cities and came home with wonderful memories. Nolt cherished his summers spent at Bucks Lake in Plumas County. For an impressive 49 consecutive years, the trout in the streams and lake didn’t stand a chance against his patience and expertise. “The Lake” became the backdrop for countless family events and stories, and continues to be an important part of the family to this day.

Nolt was always known for his great sense of humor and dapper style. He brought joy to those around him with his spontaneous jokes and amusements. Family was always his top priority. He took immense interest and pride in their accomplishments. Never a day went by without a reminder of how important we were to him.

In 2004 Nolt and Joy moved from Oakland to Eskaton Village in Grass Valley to be closer to family. At their new home they continued to enjoy their lives together. They were the happy retired couple in blue, holding hands taking their daily walk down the tree lined street.

Nolt is remembered fondly by all who knew him. He was known for outgoing warmth and kindness, dedication to family, and unwavering positive spirit. He was a true old school Gentleman in every sense of the word.

Nolt is survived by his wife and soulmate, Joy, children Jan Hedman (Hilary) and Douglas Ashley (Peggy), grandchildren Ashley Schwarz (Brady) and Hunter Hedman (Jessie Bidart), and great-grandchildren Adalyn and Calder Nolton Schwarz.

Private services will be held at a later date to honor his memory, and a life well lived.