Originally from Kansas City, Kansas, Ron Ashlock was an all-around drummer playing many different styles of music. He joined the KC Federation of Musicians (Musicians’ Union) as soon as he was old enough so that he could play in a neighbor’s band. He loved playing jobs that required him to read music.

He was a member of the Ararat Shrine Band and was their director for six or seven years. After retiring from his “day job” as a draftsman, tool designer, and project manager at Lucent Technologies (formerly Western Electric), he played as many places and occasions as possible.

A job playing drums with Ray Stinson at Funhouse Pizza in Raytown, Missouri, led to playing drums with Ray’s daughter, Rajean Stinson Buffa, in a worship band at Park Hill Christian Church. That job was his last as a drummer.

When asked the reason for giving a scholarship in Ron’s name, his wife, Jo Dawn, said, “Ron’s love of music came from his parents, especially his Dad. Ron donated instruments to make it possible for kids to play music. A scholarship in his name seemed a great way to honor someone who loved music so much.”