Marjorie Zimmerman Ashby

Marjorie Wilhelmina Zimmerman Ashby passed away on May 25, 2021, in Zionsville, Indiana.  She was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, on October 10, 1924 to Henry J. and Matilda (Willman) Zimmerman.  She married the love of her life John S. Ashby and adored her new family (Susan and Martha).  They were married for 20 years and he preceded her in death July 1984.

Affectionately known as Marge to friends and loved ones.  Highlights of her early years were spending time on the family farm in Marshall, Illinois, with her loving family.  She loved to dance and attended as many events in school as possible.

In 1946 Marge earned her Bachelor degree from Indiana State Teachers College, today know as Indiana State University.  In 1977 she received the Indiana State University Distinguished Alumni Award.  Marge was a nationally recognized specialist in nutrition and food education.  This award signified her accomplishments in her profession along with her contribution benefiting her community and state.  At that time, she was director of the Home Economics Department for Stokely-Van Camp, Inc.

Those who knew her were touched by her wit, humor, and warmth.  She had many passions though-out her life; however, cooking and creating recipes brought her much joy.  She had an amazing career working as a teacher, then at Westinghouse (where she did live TV commercials for kitchen appliances), Indianapolis Power & Light Company, Stokely-Van Camp, and upon retirement took a job with the Dairy Association.

She was a member of the Indiana Home Economics Association and always looked forward to the meetings and group events.  She was also very active the events at Northminster Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis.

Marge is survived by her step-children Susan Suchecki (Tom), Martha Mrotek (Jim), step-grandchildren Ryan Deschner (Katie), Margaux Deschner, and John Deschner, step-great grandchildren Reese and Sam Deschner, nephews John Zimmerman (Genie), and Tom Zimmerman (Cindy).

She was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents, and her loving brother Bob Zimmerman and his wife Helen.

She will be dearly missed by all those who knew her.

Memorial gifts to Northminster Presbyterian Church may be made honoring Marge.   Visitation will be held Saturday 5/29/2021 from 11-1:00 p.m.  at Flanner Buchanan Oaklawn Memorial Gardens Conner Suite with Funeral service at 1:00 p.m.