Robert "Bob" Ashenfelter

01/24/1951 - 01/31/2026

Robert “Bob” Ashenfelter, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026. A devoted husband, proud father, and lifelong servant to his community, Bob lived a life defined by courage, love, and quiet strength.

Bob dedicated much of his life to protecting others. He began his law enforcement career with the Clarksville, Indiana, Police Department from 1977 to 1981. During that time, he was involved in a dangerous call that resulted in a shootout with an armed suspect barricaded in his home. The suspect was apprehended, no officers were lost, and Bob carried a small piece of shrapnel in his forehead for the rest of his life—a lasting reminder of his bravery and commitment to duty.

It was during those early years in Clarksville, at Cross Keys Apartments, that Bob met the love of his life, Patty. Living alone for the first time, Patty felt reassured when Bob walked down the stairs in a full police uniform. When she remarked, “Yes, there is a policeman living next to me,” Bob smiled, looked down at his uniform, and replied, “Yes, there is a police officer living next to you.” That moment sparked a love that would last a lifetime. It truly was love at first sight.

Bob and Patty eloped on March 6, 1978, marrying at the City Courthouse, and later celebrated their union again on June 17, 1978, at Holy Family Church. Together, they raised two extraordinary sons, Nicholas Lee and Christopher Charles, who were Bob’s greatest pride and joy.

Bob continued his law enforcement career with the Jeffersonville Police Department from 1981 to 1988, and later served with the Louisville Metro Police Department from 1989 until his retirement in 2015. Over 26 years as a patrolman, Bob earned numerous commendations, including recognition from the U.S. Marshal’s Office, Officer of the Month in October 1991, and the Exceptional Merit Medal in March 1995. Service truly ran in the Ashenfelter family, as Bob’s twin brother, Ben, also served as a detective in California.

Outside of work, Bob embraced life fully. He loved golfing, practicing Wing Chun, scuba diving, barbecuing on his smoker, cooking with his wok, and making fresh tallow-fried French fries. He enjoyed military documentaries and movies, Stevie Ray Vaughan’s music, his Aunt Helen’s stew, and long late-night conversations with his twin brother. Above all else, Bob loved his family deeply and completely.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Patty; his sons, Nicholas and Christopher; his brothers, Dan, Ben, and David; and his sister, Nancy.

Bob made a positive and lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his love, his service, and his memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

We will miss you so much. Love you, always.