Mary Louise (Sovereign) Ashmus, 80, passed away on January 29, 2025, in Grants Pass, Oregon. She was born on August 13, 1944, in Eureka to Helen Bigley and Guy Sovereign. She was known as Mary Lou most of her life and to those who knew her the longest.

Mary Lou had a deep love for life and an adventurous spirit that led her to explore many passions. In her younger years, she was an active member of a local sorority and found joy in antique dealing. Later on, she became a gemologist and pursued the art of jewelry making. Her enthusiasm for discovery extended to mining opals, metal detecting, and panning for gold. She also enjoyed friendly competition as a member of both a bowling and pool league. Mary Lou cherished time spent with friends, especially when it involved entertaining, dancing and laughter.

She cared deeply for her family and friends, always offering kindness and support to those around her. Mary Lou is survived by her previous husband, Herman Zwald, and their three children: Nicholas Zwald, Elizabeth Cooley, and Stephonie Zwald. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, her brother, Wayne Sovereign, and numerous other loving family members. She was predeceased by nine siblings.

A graveside service will be held on February 28, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park, 3975 Broadway, Eureka. In the event of inclement weather, the service may be moved indoors to Ocean View Cemetery. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will take place at the Moose Lodge, 4328 Compton Rd., Eureka, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees are welcome to bring a side dish or dessert as they gather to share stories about Mary Lou’s life and are welcome to join the family for either event or both.

Mary Lou’s warmth and generosity touched many lives. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Mary Lou Ashmus’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.