Ezzard Askew (Lansing)

Ezzard Charles "Chuck" Askew passed away on February 22, 2018 at the age 68 at Spectrum Health Hospitals Meijer Heart Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Chuck was born on October 16, 1949 to James and Lucy (Whitelow) Askew at St. Lawrence Hospital, Lansing, Michigan.

Chuck attended Grand River and Kalamazoo Elementary schools, West Junior High School, and J.W. Sexton High School. As a “Big Red” he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football. He retired from General Motors after 38 years of service. Chuck was very passionate about sports, particularly football and basketball. He always watched the Detroit Lions and Pistons on TV, at the stadium, or arena and turned into "Coach Askew" while doing so. And of course, between 2012-2016, he never missed seeing an Iowa Basketball game - if you are wondering WHY Iowa – this proud grandpa took absolute pride in watching grandson, Anthony, played on the Iowa Hawkeye’s basketball team of which he earned a full scholarship.

Chuck and Loris were married on November 22, 1968, and from this union Anthony and Jason were born. Having two sons, Loris wanted a daughter. They were blessed with Sheireffa Richardson and raised her as their daughter. Because of their love for children, the Askews cared for over 76 foster children, including adopting four (4) sons whom they loved unconditionally.

He leaves to cherish in his memory: sons, Anthony (Laura Clemmons) Askew, Jason (Bambi) Askew, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jameel Cherry-Askew, Jonathan Askew, Javon Askew and Xavier Askew; daughter, Sheireffa Richardson; grandsons, Tykesh Greenwood, Anthony Clemmons, Jarvis (Danielle) Askew, Jason Askew; granddaughters, Victoria Askew and Sophia Askew; great-grandson, Lil Jason; siblings, Clark (Debbie) Askew and Wayne (Najee) Askew; aunts, Ann Graves and Cora Hill; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, wife, grandparents Ollie and Myrtle Whitelow, Ed and Liz Askew; 3 brothers-in-law, Lee Roy Windham, Vander Scott, Jr., Rodney Royster and sister-in-law, Jolene Shane.

After the passing of his wife, Chuck found happiness again with Diane Chillers. She became his very special friend. On behalf of Anthony, Jason, Jarvis and the Askew family, a special thanks to Ms. Diane for being there until the end. Words cannot express our gratitude to you for all that you have done.