Beverly E. Ashton, 82, of Austin, Minn., died on Monday, July 31, 2012, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Beverly was born Jan. 7, 1930, in Humboldt, Kan., to Fred and Bertha (Mauer) Hartnell. She grew up in Staceyville, Iowa, where she graduated from Visitation High School in 1947. She began working in the plant office at Hormel Foods at the age of 18. She retired in 1991 after 43 years of service. On Aug. 12, 1966, she married Richard Ashton in South Dakota. Bev enjoyed cooking, gardening, shopping, watching basketball and the Minnesota Twins. But most importantly, she liked spending time with and caring for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her smile and giggle would light up a room and she always made everyone feel welcome.

Beverly is survived by her husband, Richard of Austin; one daughter, Kimberly (Tim) of Austin; three grandchildren, Nicole, David and Jonathan; two sister-in-laws, Arlene Hartnell and Marion Ashton, both of Austin; one brother-in-law, Bill Ashton of Austin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Beverly is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bob; niece, Vicky; and sisters and brothers-in-law.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, 2012, at Mayer Funeral Home with Father Steffes officiating. There will be a 5 p.m. rosary on Thursday at Mayer Funeral Home where friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. and also one hour before the service. Casket bearers will be Tim Hansen, David Hansen, Jonathan Hansen, Bob Ashton, Steve Ashton, and Doug Ashton. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Austin.