Nicole Sandra Ashkar (neé Casale), 35, died unexpectedly April 27 at Community Medical Center in Toms River. Nicole was born in Belleville, the daughter of Nicholas Casale and Sandra Stellato. She graduated from Lacey High School in 2001 and began her career at the Lacey Township Zoning Commission, where she remained for 11 years before moving on to become a Zoning Officer for Manchester Township in 2013.
Nicole was defined by her love. It radiated from her everywhere she went and when she smiled, you couldn’t help but smile too. While many were lucky to know Nicole, the two most blessed by her fierce and limitless love were her husband, Rich, and their son, Cole.
In 2008 Nicole met the love of her life, NJ State Trooper Richard Ashkar. They were married on the beach in Punta Cana on May 25, 2013. On November 17, 2014 they joyfully welcomed their baby boy, Cole Michael. Nicole was a loving and kind mother, a devoted wife and a loyal friend. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, making Cole laugh and playing with her beloved dogs, Bolo and Bonnie.
In addition to her husband and son, Nicole leaves behind her two siblings, Marissa Raimato and her husband, Michael Raimato, and Vincent Casale; and stepmother, Janet Casale. She was a loving aunt to Ava, Michael, Emma, Lilah and Zoe and godmother to Michael and Logan.
Visitation was held May 2 at the Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated May 3 at St. James RC Church, Red Bank. Interment followed at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Middletown.
