Northern California industry leader, Don Aston passed away at his home in Sacramento, Calif., from complications of heart disease on Aug. 3. He was 85.
An Arkansas native and U.S. Navy veteran, Aston settled in California where he met and married his wife of 50 years Margaret Aston in 1962. He entered the pool industry during the 1960s eventually forming Crystal Pool Supply, Best Pool Supply and Chem Quip. Aston played a key role in establishing the Foundation of Pool and Spa Industry Education, where he served on the board of directors for several years. He also served on the Pool Master board of directors.
“Don was like a father to me,” long-time friend and associate Phil Gelhaus says. “Reflecting back on my relationship with Don I can’t believe our bond is approaching 60 years, with Don having a direct impact on my life, both personal and professional.”
In describing Aston’s role in establishing FPSIE, Gelhaus added, “One word, he was the ‘glue’. He served on the board of directors from day one and did a lot of the legwork establishing the organization. His wishes were always for the greater good and never for personal gain, which is why you could never say no to him.”
Aston is survived by his sons James Hazell and Steven Aston, his daughter Gretchen Dole and sister Modean Bowman and brother Herb Aston.
