Barbara A. Cermak

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Barbara Ashton Cermak, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose greatest joy in life was her family.

Barb enjoyed a career as an administrative secretary at American Hollow Boring Co. for over 30 years until her retirement.

She was the loving mother of David W. Ashton and Mark Ashton, and she treasured every moment spent with her children. Her love for family was unconditional and she loved spending time with them for Sunday dinners, sporting events and family get togethers at her home.

Her son David W. Ashton will miss their conversations talking about the Browns, Indians, his children and their countless times spent together through the years. He is very thankful to have such a loving and loyal mother who was always there for him as a child, teenager and adult. She will be missed dearly.

She shared a special bond with her daughter-in-law. Maria Hills Ashton was truly the daughter she never had, and their relationship grew throughout the years. Barbara would always say, " I don't know what I would do without you Maria."

Nothing brought her more pride than being a grandmother. She was especially close with her granddaughter, Lexi Ashton, and her grandsons, Tanner Ashton, Walker Ashton, and Asher Ashton, cherishing every memory they created together. She spent countless hours with them as young children and continued to do so as they became teenagers and young adults. She also has three grandsons Brandon Ashton, Caleb Ashton, and Aaron Ashton.

She found happiness in life's simple pleasures-listening to the music of Kris Kristofferson, Neil Diamond and Rod Stewart, sharing laughter with family at Sunday dinners, enjoying ice cream cones and indulging in Hershey Kisses. Her warm smile, caring heart, and gentle spirit made everyone around her feel loved and welcome into her home at 3007 Oakwood Street.

Though she will be deeply missed we are happy she is with her loving husband Gary R. Cermak in heaven. They are probably on their boat "Three Dawg Night" watching a beautiful sunset together. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and were close with her. The memories she created and the love she shared with those in her life will remain a lasting gift to her children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She leaves behind a family who loved her dearly and will carry her memory with them always.

Private arrangements are being handled at the convenience of the family by the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, 2122 Raspberry St. Erie, PA 16502. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Childrens' Hospital at www.shrinerschildrens.org.

"A mother's love is a gift that remains with her son forever; true gratitude means never turning away from the woman who gave him life and loved him unconditionally."