Sterling "Mr. Merc" Ashby

Sterling B. Ashby “Mr. Merc”, 84 of Ellendale, ND died October 3, 2021 at his home. Sterling was born to Frank I and Laura (Buell) Ashby on September 27, 1937, in Red Oak, IA. The family moved to Roseville, MN in 1950. Sterling bought his first car in 1953, a ‘38 Ford. It was in 1957 Sterling met Kathy in his new ‘57 Ford convertible. They dated until 1960 and were married on June 18, 1960. Sterling co-owned a St. Paul, MN meat market with his brother Frank II until 1975 when Frank died. He continued as a meatcutter at Keindels Market until 1980 when he started Mr. Merc. Sterling and Kathy made and sold parts world-wide for Mercury cars 1949 – 1956. They moved to Ellendale, ND in 1990 and lived at Pheasant Lake until Sterling’s death. Sterling started several car clubs throughout his life including Knight Lites, 1st Fifty, Cruisin Customs, and he was a lifetime member of the Minnesota Street Rod Association. Sterling enjoyed custom cars, fishing, his Bible and Kathy’s spaghetti sauce. He is survived by his wife Kathy, son Craig, son-in-law Jason Moore and brother-in-law Richard Ellis. Sterling was preceded in death by his parents, sister Marvel and brother Frank II. Sterling’s family has already held a celebration of life service. A public memorial service will be held in St. Paul, MN in the spring 2022. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale, ND.