On February 4th, three days after losing his father, long-time Gardiner resident Larry Ashton’s house was completely destroyed by fire. He noticed a crack in the clay pipe connecting his wood stove to his chimney, went to Majestic’s Hardware to get a replacement pipe, and by the time he returned, the house was in flames. Thankfully, Larry and his cat survived. Sadly, Larry’s homeowner’s insurance was recently cancelled. Until he has a new home, Larry will be living with his sister, Linda, in New Paltz.
Many people will know Larry from his decades as a farrier, shoeing horses, and his passion for creating household items from horseshoes and wood. His long years shoeing horses have taken a toll. As he nears 68, Larry’s strength and capabilities are limited, and he has no pension. Everyone knows Larry for his good spirit. Although his possessions were meager, he was always generous with the little he had. Now he has nothing. Larry needs a helping hand.
Thank you for whatever you can donate to this cause. If anyone is deserving, it is Larry Ashton. Visit www. gofundme/homeforlarry.com.
The photo at right was taken just before Larry’s father died. Left to right: Larry’s sister Linda; Larry Ashton; their father, John Ashton, age 90, and Larry’s brother, Robert Ashton.