Ashton Lee Penrod

Ashton Lee Penrod, 23, of Galesburg, IL, died Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Born November 30, 2002, in Burlington, Iowa.

Ashton was a loving, hardworking man, who believed strongly in his values and family.  

He enjoyed being in the outdoors. The time that he could spend on the river was important to him, and he took after his grandfather in his love for fishing.

Ashton loved animals of all kinds.  He was indiscriminate, whether the animal had four legs and fur, or if it was an insect or bird, he loved them all.

Often, the simplest things in life meant the most to him. Sometimes it was just cranking his music a little too loud while playing video games. Or, having family and friends around a bonfire to share stories and memories.  Ashton took time to enjoy the moment.

He held his beliefs firmly, sometimes hard-headedly.  He was someone you could trust to be there for you and lighten your spirits with laughter and a joke.  Sometimes the laugh would come from his clumsiness, but it was all in good fun.

Ashton loved his family.  He was excited to be a father, and proud to be one.  He will be missed dearly.

Survivors include his daughter, Ashlee Penrod, and Ashlee's mother, Kaylee Haynes; Ashton's mom, Krystle (Jasper) Walljasper; grandfather, John (Veronica) Penrod; siblings, Autumn (Bryon) Brandenburg, Austin Penrod, Hannah Penrod, Thomas (Alex) Penrod, and Josiah Walljasper; and nephew, Ronan Penrod.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2-5 PM, at the Morning Sun Community Center, 106 N Main St, Morning Sun, Iowa 52640.  The family requests that casual clothing be worn.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Des Moines County Humane Society.

Please continue to keep Ashton's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.
 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.