Tribute & Message From The Family
MANCHESTER - Elias Emile "Skip" Ashooh, 68, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2019 in Manchester, NH. Skip was born on February 28, 1951, the first of 7 children of Emile and Louise (Ganem) Ashooh, and is survived by his beloved wife, Gail (Tamases) Fisher.
Skip abided in the love of many things, but three especially: his wife Gail, his family, and the City of Manchester.
The grandson of Lebanese immigrants to Manchester, Skip remained constantly aware of the blessings that life in America bestowed on his forebears, and this fueled his desire to improve life in the Queen City. After graduating Saint Anselm College in 1973, Skip began his professional career as a junior high school teacher of social studies, where he could share his love of American history with a new generation. He then changed careers, joining R.L. Carr and company as an investment advisor, and ultimately establishing his own financial investment firm.
While active in dozens of civic and charitable causes, he will be remembered in particular for the singular and impactful influence he had on the creation of a civic center in Manchester, which became the Verizon Wireless Arena and now the Southern New Hampshire University Arena. As Chairman of the Manchester Development Corporation, he led the effort on behalf of Mayor Wieczorek and the Board of Alderman to bring the civic center to a reality, from the selection of the architect to securing an American Hockey League franchise, the Manchester Monarchs. The establishment of the arena is one of the most significant economic development projects in the state, and its positive impact on the city continues to this day. For this and his other achievements, Skip was honored as the 2000 Citizen of the Year in Manchester.
To his parents Emile and Louise, he was a devoted and loving son. As one of seven siblings, Skip cherished the family bond that was most often manifest through the large and sumptuous family gatherings that are regular occurrences among his brothers and sisters. Skip was also the "godfather" of the annual family reunion at Bear Brook State park, where both his cooking and volleyball skills were on display.
His life became fully complete when he began a journey of love and commitment with Gail Fisher. Encountering each other through a shared passion for dogs, the two embarked on a 30 year relationship that brought constant joy to them and to those who shared in their friendship.
Skip was well known as an excellent cook, a talented craftsman (joinery), and an avid golfer. He kept regular office hours at Castro's cigar shop, from which he could view Elm Street, the main street of the city he loved.
Skip is survived by his six siblings, Barbara A. M. Maloney and her husband Richard J. Maloney of Manchester, Nicholas J. Ashooh and his wife Brenda of Lyme, Marylou A. Lazos and her husband Harry of Derry, Emile J. Ashooh, Jr. and his wife Michelle of Manchester, Carolyn Farley and her husband Jamie of Townsend, MA, and Richard E. Ashooh and his wife Lori of Bedford, as well as many nieces, nephews – to whom he was known as "the fun Uncle".
SERVICES: Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family. The family would like to extend an invitation for all to join with them for a celebration of Skip's life at a date and location to be announced.
In lieu of flowers and consistent with Skip's dedication to the Queen City, contributions are encouraged to any of the Manchester, NH charitable organizations which are devoted to the betterment of the city.
Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, Manchester, is assisting with arrangements.
To send an online message of condolence, please go to www.lambertfuneralhome.com.
Condolence & Memory Journal
From the Tsiatsios family. My most deepest sympathy during this time of great loss. Skip was a very devoted, understanding and sympathetic person we've had the greatest pleasure of ever knowing. We'll miss him terribly.
Posted by
Tsiatsios - Boston, MA November 12, 2019
Gail & Ashooh family, my deepest sorrow to you all, his smile will truly be missed. May all his success bring you comfort and great memories!
Posted by
denise bergeron - manchester, NH - Friend November 12, 2019
All successful cities are blessed with a "champion". Metropolis had Superman. Manchester had Skip Ashooh. You can't help but be reminded of him everywhere you go in the city, his imprint is so vibrant.
I am sure that because of his generous involvement with a variety of charitable causes in the city, the angels have reserved a special place for him in Heaven. Manchester's loss is truly Heaven's gain.
Skip was a good man. He had an elegance, style and charm that distinguished him from the rest. He will be missed.
Deepest and warmest heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Gail and Skip's family.
Posted by
Kevin Clougherty - Manchester, NH November 06, 2019
Are deepest sympathy to you and the Ashooh Family. May God's loving arms comfort you at this difficult time.
Posted by
Mike & Gloria Sullivan - Manchester, NH - Neighbor November 03, 2019
So very sorry for your loss. Skip was a wonderful man, We will miss him dearly.
Posted by
George's Apparel Auger - Manchester, NH November 02, 2019
All my sympathy, it is so hard to believe, we all just saw Skip at Betty Ashooh's wake and funeral not more than a month ago. He seemed so well, though I did not know him well, I am sure my deceased wife Joyce (Daher) Belko did, I believe they were cousins, it is a tragic loss, far too soon. Skip was very accomplished and a civic leader, the greater NH area morns his loss and his many civic contributions. May he rest in peace, his legacy will live on.
Posted by
John Belko - North Andover, MA - Family Friend October 31, 2019
Sincerest condolences from all at the Anagnost Companies.
Posted by
Dick Anagnost - Manchester, NH October 31, 2019
We send our sympathies to Rich, Gail and Skip's entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Skip was a total force of nature who will be missed by so very many.
Posted by
Debra and Chuck Douglas - Bow, NH - Friend October 30, 2019
Rest In Peace Skip
Posted by
Timothy Hanagan - Barnstead n,h, NH October 29, 2019
Deepest condolences to Skip's family and friends. He was truly a gentleman, and the best-dressed man about town. The City of Manchester has lost a dear friend, but his contributions will endure.
Posted by
Kelly Atwood - Manchester, NH October 29, 2019
I didn't know Skip well, but when I moved (back) to New Hampshire in 1994, I became aware of him for his dogged efforts to get an arena built in Manchester. When I think of him today, what occurs to me is the thousands of people who never met Skip, who unknowingly owe him a debt of gratitude for the many hours of enjoyment they've received attending events at the Verizon/SNHU Arena since it opened in the fall of 2001. If some of those folks could have thanked him, the genial Skip would probably have told them the pleasure was his - because it clearly was. Whenever I saw Skip at Monarchs games, the man was smiling from ear to ear, happily taking in the scene of people having a great time right here in Manchester. I was one of those people, and fortunately, I had the opportunity to thank Skip in-person - a couple of times.
May God bless Skip Ashooh for all of his efforts to make greater Manchester a better place to live.
My sympathies to his wonderful wife (and dog trainer supreme) Gail and family.
Posted by
Andy Black - Manchester, NH October 28, 2019
Skip was the definition of a true gentlemen. The unmistakable way he carried himself (impeccably dressed) the sound of his voice and his genuine interest in you were all signature traits of Skip.
He left a deep impression not only on the City of Manchester but all that had the fortunate pleasure of meeting him.
Wishing his wife Gail and the entire Ashooh family peace during this difficult time.
Dennis, Carol and Dylan Chabot
Dennis, Carol and Dylan Chabot, Goffstown
Posted by
Dennis, Carol and Dylan Chabot - Goffstown, NH - Friend October 28, 2019
Gail, Barbara and the Ashooh family, we send our condolences on Skip's passing. He was one of Manchester's great supporters. I remember well those long days and his leadership working with him and our colleagues on the Manchester Development Corporation board to help secure THE civic center for our City. We will all miss his presence on Elm Street. RIP, Skip. Pauline & Dick Charpentier, Friends-Cocoa Beach, FL.
Posted by
Richard & Pauline Charpentier - Cocoa Beach, FL - Friend October 28, 2019
Gail, we were saddened to see this news that your Skip had passed away. He was a wonderful man who impacted so many lives. Our thoughts are with you as you work through the range of emotions in the coming days and months. Our deepest sympathy to you and the entire Ashooh family.
Lori & Bud Piper
Posted by
Lori Piper - New Boston, NH - Friend October 28, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with Skip's family and friends. This is such a devastating loss to our community. I met Skip through Rotary many, many years ago. My favorite memory was running in to Skip at Hannaford on Bicentennial Drive over the years, he would greet me with a smile and a hug followed up by nice conversation. He always asked about my daughters, and my dogs too. I will really miss seeing him drive about town, with the top down on his sports car and flashing his amazing smily!
Posted by
Ellen Roposa - Manchester, NH - Friend October 28, 2019
Gail, so sorry for your loss. Skip always lifted my day when I saw him with his always kind smile and kind words. You were both always supportive towards me and I will never forget that. Thank you.
God has His new angel with Him. Still very debonair in his angel outfit and perfect hair. God has chosen a beautiful angel in Skip. Peace and love.
Posted by
Neville Pereira - Manchester, NH October 28, 2019
To the Ashooh Family,
I send my deepest sympathy to the family. Skip has left behind a wonderful legacy and for everyone see to and enjoy for years to come. Gail will have the support a great family to help her during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Posted by
Nancy Drouin(Beaudoin) - Londonderry, NH October 28, 2019
Dear Barbara(Maloney). Wishing you and your family sympathies and a gentle grief for the early loss of
Skip. It sounds like he was quite a man, it must be very hard for all of you. Al and Jura Drukteinis
Posted by
Albert and Jura Drukteinis - Bedford, NH - Friend October 28, 2019
Skip was a wonderful man who made immeasurable contributions to the City of Manchester. He will be dearly missed. Best wishes to the entire Ashooh family.
Posted by
Nate Miller - NH - Acquaintance October 28, 2019
I got to know Skip during the two years that we worked together on the Civic Center Project. He was of great help to me on 9/11/01 when he connected me via telephone, through his line in Manchester, to my wife when I was trapped in New York City. We last spoke on 9/11/19 and planned to meet in Manchester next month for dinner. I'm shocked at his sudden loss and will truly miss him.
Posted by
Richard Tortora - NYC October 27, 2019
RIP Skip. Great memories from BBHS, UPS, and floor hockey at Immaculata. You looked dapper as usual at our 50th reunion this past August. Condolences to the Ashooh family.
Posted by
Tom Fifield - Mesquite, NV October 27, 2019
Gail Tamases Fisher
Thinking of you. Ann Forster sent Skip's obituary to me. I truly hope you have friends to help you in the coming weeks and months. As you recall, Jean died in July 2016. After working in Fl to help flip a Congressional seat last Oct -Nov. I returned to my DMHS reunion and among the people I re-met was Ann's sister Helen. Her husband died the same summer. We started dating in Nov when she gave a small reunion luncheon for another classmate who was in from Israel. We decide to be "a couple" in March but to keep are own apartments. She lives on the Upper Eastside... It has been really nice to share life with someone again. Shock of shocks, she was diagnosed Pancreatic Cancer in June, Stage 4...
So, our lives have changed but we are even more attached. She is in chemo. We have traveled to Quebec and to Paris and Venice. And, of course, I have gotten to know Ann again. She came to my home for our Rosh Hashana gathering. Caroline and Rick came along with 35 members of the Huguenot Thomases descendants. Please let me know when the memorial gathering is being held for Skip.
Hugs .... Matt
Posted by
Matt Thomases - Brooklyn, NY October 27, 2019
First of all I just want to say how door I am of your husbands/ siblings passing. I seen Skip at Picholas restaurant one day. I could not help but tell him how handsome he was as he reminded me of my husband whom I think is the best looking. He was taken back by this, smiled and said thank you. I told him just how very lucky his wife was and he said I know and I love her very much he just looked like my husband when he was younger even down to the way he dressed. I would see him often and he was always so polite. God bless you and know that from a stranger, your husband loved you so much.
Posted by
Toni Johnsick - Manchester, NH - Acquaintance October 27, 2019
My thoughts and prayers to the entire Ashooh family.
Posted by
Richard & Joanne Bouchard - Goffstown, NH - Family Friend October 27, 2019
I had the privilege of serving with Skip on the board of the Southern NH Planning Commission. I was always impressed by his elegance, his intellect, his kindness and his great example of public service.
Posted by
Peter Griffin - Windham, NH - Friend October 27, 2019
Skip and I hung out in high school and later we served on the NH Planning Commission together. My condolences to his family. He was a great person.
Posted by
Bill Stergios - Candia, NH - Friend October 27, 2019
I grew up in the South End with Skip and many wonderful Lebanese families
He did love his City and all if his family
He will be sorely missed by all.
Posted by
Anita Lavigne - Punta Gorda, FL - Acquaintance October 27, 2019
Gail, Remembering the life of someone special. Skip always had a endearing smile and genuine warmness in his heart. My sincerest condolences to you and his family.
Posted by
Janet Spalding - Milford, NH - Friend October 27, 2019
So sorry to hear of Skip's passing. Lots of wonderful memories getting the Civic Center built.
Posted by
Linda Garriott - Medford, MA - Acquaintance October 27, 2019
Skip always said that "Nothing matters 'til October." I will always cherish the day Scottie and I were singing "16 Runs" outside the humidor when Skip jumped up from his serious conversation to vociferously join the chorus.
Summer thursday mornings will never be the same. From his panoramic throne Skip often enjoyed the window washing activity that regularly turned the store front windows on Elm Street into mirrors that day. It was always a real hoot-anany!
As a tribute to Skip The Acme Cigar and Rope company that supplied Skip with his hand-rolled, custom crafted, special order stogies announced they have suspended manufacturing operations, also citing a precipitous drop in sales, proving that a single nod from Skip was sufficient to move world markets.
Skip was the ultimate gentleman. I asked him once about the source of his wisdom. He shared that he had read Fielding's "Tom Jones" while in high school and determined from that reading that "Anything is possible."
To imply that Skip was all smoke and mirrors would not do him justice. He was better dressed than Prince Charles. He was smarter than Einstein. He was held in greater esteem than the works of the Bible. And he was my friend. My grief is overwhelming.
Farewell Sweet Prince ...
Posted by
Paul Downey - Manchester, NH October 27, 2019
I extend my sincerest condolences, Nick, to you and the entire Ashooh family, upon the passing of your brother.
Posted by
Bob Sullivan - Raleigh, NC October 27, 2019
Smoking a cigar with you and engaging in conversation was one of my favorite things to do. RIP Skip
Posted by
Lloyd Clement - Manchester, NH October 27, 2019
Skip I will miss our intelligent conversations at Piccolas, Rest In Peace .......Dan Molloy
Posted by
A friend October 27, 2019
As City staff to the Manchester Development Corporation, I had the pleasure of working with Skip during the development of the Civic Center. I remember him most for his intelligence, kindness, sense of humor and ability to work effectively on a variety of projects. He will be sorely missed by Manchester. I send my condolences to his family.
Posted by
Jane Hills - Manchester, NH - Coworker October 27, 2019
Dear Gail, Nick, and Family :
Mary and I share your loss of this gentleman's "gentle man" who enjoyed his special "blue collar" challenges on behalf of Manchester in the white collar world that respected him so much. Will always remember him for his dedication to the City of Manchester.
Don and Mary Anderson
Marco Island, Florida
Posted by
A friend October 27, 2019
Sorry to hear about Skip
Posted by
Judy Sullivan - Manchester, NH October 27, 2019
Skip was a great man, full of kindness, professionalism and greatness. I had the pleasure of working with him when he called the company I worked with for a service call. It was a pleasure to deal with such a great person. May his family and friends keep his memories close during this time now and always. Rest easy Skip.
Posted by
Jennifer Bohl - Weare, NH October 27, 2019
Prayers to Gail and the All Dogs gym family , a beloved son of Manchester , Skip will be missed greatly . He leaves a legacy of civic engagement that will be remembered .
Posted by
Keith Hirschmann - Manchester, NH October 27, 2019
My sincerest condolences to Skip's family, and all the Ashooh family. I've always known him to be a stand up guy, and never without a smile on his face. He will be missed by many, but his impact on Manchester and those around him, will never be lost. God Bless †
Posted by
Jack Murphy - Manchester, NH October 26, 2019
RIP Skip. You always gave me great advice regarding selling and buying stocks. Even if a few years passed you always remembered me if we passed on the street and always asked how I was doing. To Skip's family my heartfelt condolences. Skip was a fantastic person with a winning smile.
Posted by
Gail Morgrage - Manchester, NH October 26, 2019
Although we have not been in touch for several years, I remember Skip well and your special relationship. I am so sorry that he is gone so soon. I send you Love., dear friend Gail.
Posted by
Carolyn Clark - Stittsville ( Ottawa) Ontari, AZ - Friend October 26, 2019
So sorry for the loss of this legend. From High School,to United Parcel Service, to many years of Sunday morning hockey, to our Banking dealings regarding the Civic Center, to our many rounds of golf and laughs....I will cherish our friendship and miss you tremendously. Rest In Peace Skipper.
Posted by
Michael Gleason October 26, 2019
From Blessed Sacrament to Castro's you have been a good friend. I will miss our get togethers when I am in town.
Posted by
Don - New Brunswick Canada - Friend October 26, 2019
So sorry for the loss of this vibrant man. My condolences to his entire family.
Posted by
Kathleen Steinmetz - Manchester, NH - Family Friend October 26, 2019
I am saddened to learn of Skips untimely passing. I shared a wonderful relationship with Skip, who I considered one of my consigliere's. Skip was always willing to chat and offer good, reliable counsel. He was a supporter of mine when we were both elected to the Manchester Charter Commission. We shared a love of our mutual large families, and our City. To the love of his life, Gail, and entire family, I extend heartfelt sympathies.RIP, dear friend.
Posted by
Jerome Duval - Manchester, NH October 26, 2019
Skip was just a great guy and whether you saw him at Hannaford or a board meeting he was interested it how you were doing and the latest news. We will miss seeing him driving around town in his beloved car. He will be well remembered and cherished through the wonderful memories he helped create. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn his loss and celebrate a life well lived.
Posted by
Ellie Cochran - Manchester, NH - Friend October 26, 2019
RIP dear Eliad E. "Skip" Ashooh. I was nice knowing you as a civic & business leader. Also your community work for the city of Manchester, NH.
Peace be with all in the family. You surely be missed.
Posted by
Hon. Carlos Gonzalez - Manchester, NH October 25, 2019
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. May your treasured memories of Elias always fill your heart with love and peace
Posted by
A friend October 25, 2019
Our deepest sympathies to the Ashooh Family. May His Memory Be Eternal!!
Posted by
Natalie (Kobashar) Call - Townsend, MA October 25, 2019
Skip was a man larger than life. I would forward to seeing him at a family gathering when he would enter I was awed at his presence. I will forever miss his presence in my life
Posted by
Laura LaJeunesse - Manchester, NH - Friend October 25, 2019
I will always remember the smile- I am proud that he was a friend of mine
Posted by
Richard Murray - Santa Fe, NM October 25, 2019
My condolences to Rich, Nick , Gail and the entire family on Skip's passing. He was a class act and always gave 150 percent.
Bob Molloy, Molloy Sound and Video
Posted by
Bob Molloy - Manchester, NH October 25, 2019
Skip, I will miss seeing you at the front desk. You were a very astute gentleman with a great smile.
Loren Robidas
Posted by
Loren Robidas - Manchester, NH - Coworker October 25, 2019
So sorry to hear of Skip's passing he was an unbelievable person!
Posted by
Sherry (Magoon) Paradis - Pembroke, NH - Friend October 25, 2019
I simply cannot believe a man so full of love, life and positive energy is gone so young and much too soon. My heart is breaking for you, Gail, his amazing family members and all who knew and loved him.
Posted by
Joyce Bedard October 25, 2019
Skip your presence will be missed by all your impact and vision have made their marks all around town what you have done to make this city the great place that it is will never be forgotten ... our hearts ache for the loss of this Titan
Posted by
Matt Kfoury - Manchester, NH October 25, 2019