Remembering William D. Ashton
1939–2024
Engineering alum known for service and philanthropy has died at 84
A College of Engineering alumnus who was among 30 members and four generations of the Ashton family to attend Iowa over a 90-year span died in 2024 following injuries sustained in a car crash.
William “Bill” David Ashton, 84, leaves behind a legacy of leadership in engineering and giving back to his community both at home and at the University of Iowa.
“We at the University of Iowa College of Engineering are deeply saddened by the news of Bill Ashton’s passing,” said Ann McKenna, engineering dean and Roy J. Carver Professor of Engineering. “Bill remained a fixture of the university and college long after he graduated. We are forever grateful for his leadership in philanthropy as well as modeling how an engineer can positively impact the world.”
The lifelong Davenport resident, son of Frank and Edna (Wessels) Ashton, followed in his father’s and uncles’ footsteps to Iowa, earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1962 followed by a master’s degree in 1963. His brothers Jim and George would also earn degrees from Iowa Engineering.
In 2021, Bill Ashton reflected upon his time at Iowa, citing the “unique and close relationship between students and faculty, staff, and administrators,” an outstanding technical education, and engineering ethics.
The former U.S. Army Ranger and combat engineer officer began Ashton Engineering, Inc., which took on projects across Iowa and the globe, including the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge in Madrid, Iowa. Up until his death, Ashton lent his passion for engineering and problem solving professionally and in volunteer capacities.
Throughout his career, he kept the University of Iowa close to his heart.
He and his brother Jim helped create the Ashton Cross Country Course in honor of Francis Cretzmeyer and Ashton Prairie in Iowa City. The support of Bill Ashton and his brothers also led to the creation of the William D. Ashton Professorship in Civil Engineering, the George D. Ashton Professorship in Hydroscience and Engineering, and the James E. Ashton Professorship in Engineering.
Bill Ashton was inducted into Iowa’s Distinguished Engineering Alumni Academy in 2008, and the University recognized the entire Ashton family for its dedication and philanthropy with the Family Spirit Award in 2022.
Ashton leaves behind his wife of 61 years, Ann (Milligan) Ashton, brother Jim, daughters Susan (Todd) McCloy and Patricia (Erik) Rolfstad, son Steven (Claudia) Ashton, nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, David Ashton, David’s wife Kay (Eckerle) Ashton, and his brother George.