Tributes flow for Moreton father Ash Bannister

Tributes are flowing for a beloved Moreton father of three who tragically died after a brief illness. He was widely known among coffee lovers and worked two jobs to support his young family.

Ash Bannister left behind his wife Aimee and children Konner, 12, Marlee, 14 and Xander, 16. Picture – GoFundMe

Tributes are flowing for a beloved Moreton father of three who tragically died after a brief illness on September 12.

Ash Bannister, from Rothwell, who was only 37, has been remembered fondly by loved ones for his dedication to his family.

He worked two jobs and six to seven days a week to provide a good education for his children at Mueller College.

Mr Bannister was the head roaster for Tim Adams Specialty Coffee in Bellmott and a barista on the team at The Northey Street Organic Farmer’s Market.

Close work friends, Hayley Lakers and Katie Adams, started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for his children.

“He was a hardworking and tireless colleague who had the ability to make stressful work situations something more light hearted,” they said.

“He was the type of friend who became a part of your family.

“Ash was so unique. He had a way which made people instantly engaged and comfortable. His larger than life presence was a joyful one.

“Ash was funny, quick to smile and make others laugh. He was a fiercely loyal friend, dropping everything to support those in need.

“He would go out of his way without a second thought, a gesture he demonstrated many times for our families.

“Ash was a confidante for many; a warm, calming and grounding soul.”

Ash Bannister died suddenly on September 12. Picture – Facebook

The GoFundMe page has raised $9000 in just one week.

“Despite working two jobs and raising children alongside his wife Aimee, Ash found happiness spending time each Thursday with his grandma in her care facility,” the page said.

“He made sure she was not without want and would watch TV and have tea and biscuits together.

“For all he gave to those around him, he never asked for anything in return – it was just his innate nature.”

The Moreton, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast coffee industry and community has been left shocked by Mr Bannister’s death.

“The one recurring question we have all have is ‘how can we help support Ash’s family? How can we give back even just a fraction of what Ash gave to us?’

“The reason Ash worked six to seven days was to offset the cost of providing a good education for his three children. This was of his utmost importance.

“If you knew Ash, you knew how much he adored his kids. He spoke of them often, and with deep pride. We, as his friends want to continue his life ambition for his children to receive the best education available.

“Nothing will bring back their Dad – we know that, but if we can ensure they stay in their current school, surrounded by consistent support, they will have a better chance of coming through this without negative long term impacts.

“This would be Ash’s wish.

“We appreciate that many families are feeling a financial strain. So we thank you in advance for supporting this cause in any way you can, via donation or circulation of Ash’s campaign.”

Tim Adams, from Tim Adam’s Specialty Coffee, where Mr Bannister worked, also shared a tribute online.

“Ash Bannister, all around coffee legend as he appears in his natural habitat. Proud and loving Dad and Husband. Our brother, friend and colleague you will be greatly missed,” Mr Adams wrote online.

“It is with deep sadness we share the news of Ash’s passing...to all those who were lucky enough to know our dear friend, he was one of the most humble, joyful, loyal and dedicated souls we’ve ever known.

“Our thoughts and prayers extend out to his wife Aimee and their three children.

“Support can come in many ways. With your next coffee please take a moment to remember and honour Ash.”

Ash Bannister died suddenly on September 12. Picture – Facebook.

Tom, from Bellmott, also shared a tribute.

“It is with true sadness to inform you that co-founder, coffee guru, and friend Ash Bannister tragically passed away,” he said.

“I first met Ash when I was looking to do some coffee for a clothing brand I was a part of and we quickly became mates, his knowledge and experience within the coffee industry blew me away. And one day I asked him to be part of this crazy idea I had called Bellmott.

“I had no idea about coffee and he knew that but he guided me through everything and never made me feel like I was stupid or below anything, his faith in Bellmott kept me running when all I had was fumes after continuous setbacks. I knew in my gut he was the right dude for the job.

“We always talked about shaking up the coffee industry one can at a time and we often joked about fate bringing us together to create something unreal.

“Bellmott will continue but we are slowly just figuring it all out for the time being.”

Ash Bannister left behind his wife Aimee and children Konner, 12, Marlee, 14 and Xander, 16. Picture – GoFundMe

Justin Bush, who has known Ash for 15 years, also shared a tribute.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our beloved friends from the House of Gains family, Ash Bannister,” he said.

“Ash was not just a friend but a cherished part of my life for over 15 years. He possessed qualities that made him truly special – warmth, kindness, humour, pride, courage, and strength.

“Our conversations were filled with discussions on men’s health, finding solace from the challenges of daily life, and our shared fascination with conspiracy theories, particularly those involving the existence of aliens (a topic that always brought a smile to our faces).

“The House of Gains will never be the same without you, brother.

“My heart goes out to Ash’s family, and I extend my deepest condolences for your loss.”

You can donate to support Mr Bannister’s children here.