David Leslie Asher was born May 19, 1954 to John and Bonnie (Hedges) Asher of Independence, Missouri. From an early age, he was a man of many talents. While attending Van Horn High School in Independence, MO, he was the drummer in a band (Opus Yoman) that won the Battle of the Bands in Kansas City. He also enjoyed playing shortstop and was recognized as a Border League “All Star” player in the greater KC metro.
Dave went on to William Jewel College, in Liberty, MO, to play baseball. While in college he was asked to play for the Detroit Tigers Farm Team. But when he met Jill Schoonover, he found a new love. They were married on October 28, 1973 and lived their entire marriage in Mound City, MO. Together they had four children.
Dave was a true craftsman, creating a legacy with his hands. Through the years he restored a 1922 Model T Ford Truck, a chuck wagon, a two-seated hack, and a horse drawn sleigh. He enjoyed building furniture and black powder guns. He would sketch caricatures and realistic images. He was a talented woodcarver and wood burner, as well as a taxidermist. Dave and Jill lovingly restored their Victorian home together.
Many people got to know him throughout the 21 years of operating the Tradin’ Post in downtown Mound City. Later, he became a self-employed contractor and worked a great deal of the time for Roger’s Pharmacy. He also helped family and friends with projects that are too numerous to count.
Dave was an avid hunter and a member of the Crooked Barrel Muzzle Loader Club. He was a lifetime member of the Holt County Historical Society and organized local reenactments. He was an equestrian rider in movies such as The Patriot, The Alamo and Ride with the Devil. Most importantly, Dave loved the Lord and was a charter member of the Christian Fellowship Church.
Dave’s favorite title was Papa. He loved to play his harmonica and dance with his grandchildren. His bedtime stories were epic!
On September 10, 2025, Dave passed away from an aggressive form of cancer at KU Medical Center - on Jill’s birthday.
Dave is survived by his wife, Jill Angela Asher; children Caleb David Asher (Renée) of Topeka, KS, Joshua Adam Asher of Los Angeles, CA, Josie Jill Faire Graham (Curt) of Rock Port, MO, and Katie Angela Shady (Pepper) of Lee’s Summit, MO; eight grandchildren Grace, Christian, Judah, Paisley, Jax, Sarai, Penny-Jo, and Fallon; six siblings Mike Asher (Janet), Dan Asher (Trixie), Paul Asher (Kandis), Tim Asher, Tom Asher, and Julie Asher-Lingham (Steve); mother-in-law Faire Schoonover; brother-in-law Jon Schooner (Kayla), sister-in-law Gay Quick Markt (Allan), sister-in-law Patty Schoonover, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Bonnie Asher, father-in-law James Schoonover, and brothers-in-law Tommy Quick and Bryce Schoonover
Funeral services will be held at the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City, MO on September 20, 2025 at 3:00 pm. Immediately following, family and friends are invited to Griffith Park for a celebration of Dave’s Life. Prepare your favorite story about Dave to share and enjoy a weenie roast in his honor until 7:30 p.m. Dress casually and bring your own chair.
Memorials, in lieu of flowers, can be given to the Mound City Cemetery or Christian Fellowship Church. A private family inurnment will occur at Mount Hope Cemetery, Mound City.
