Ashlie Toews whose bright shining spirit lives on forever

Dear family, friends and community,

It is with profound sadness and shock that we share the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of our beloved friend, Ashlie Toews, who passed away in a vehicle accident on January 1, 2025 on the island of Koh Tao, Thailand. Ashlie had just completed her Divemaster certification and was due to fly to Australia soon after to start a job on Keppel Island.

Ashlie was an amazing young woman, who made the absolute most of her 22 years on this earth. She touched so many lives with her bright spirit, authenticity, humour, passion and love. She made friends wherever she went as she was such a joy to be around.

Her parents, Dawn and Galen, are devastated by the loss of their only child. In Dawn’s own words: “Ashlie is the love of our lives. She was such a bright, shining spirit, full of so much love, joy, passion, strength and compassion. Words will never be sufficient. The grief will be long and winding. The love that was shared through her, towards her and all around her will be forever.”

To support Dawn and Galen through this very difficult time, we have set up a Gofundme. Donations will help with the cost of Ashlie’s funeral services in Thailand, flights for her parents to be with her, and to allow them the time they need to heal without the burden of financial stress. A celebration of life for Ashlie will be held in May 2025, where we can gather to honour her memory and the beautiful life she lived.

Ashlie’s light will live on in all of us who were lucky enough to know her. Your love, support and prayers mean the world to her family and friends during this time of grief.

With deepest gratitude,

Femke and Heidi