Please join us in supporting Jake Harter following the tragic loss of his wife Ashli. Jake and Ashli were united in marriage last month, on July 26, 2025. This gofundme is to raise funds to support Jake through this difficult time as he and his loved ones navigate the days following Ashli’s passing. The funds will be used to help with funeral, living, and general supportive costs through this time.

The greater Buffalo circus community and The Bird’s Nest join in celebrating Ashli’s life and lifting Jake up. Please give if you are able, and share the love.

Below are some words by Jake and Ashli’s close friend Reu that sum it up.

“Two things stand out most to me about Ashli and Jake, and the way they love each other. First- they enjoy each other. Truly, deeply, they are so delighted by everything about the other. Secondly, Ashli and Jacob carry a pride and a respect for each other that makes you believe in unconditional love. They've seen each other at their lows and let it make them stronger, love harder. Through every goofy joke or new hobby, or career change, or nights making dinner, Ashli and Jake found wonder and refuge in each other. If you looked at Jake while he was looking at Ashli, you saw a sunflower turning to the sun. You could see in his eyes how much he loved her, how she amazed him, and impressed him. His eyes blatantly showed his devotion to the world. And in the moments you caught Ashli beaming at Jacob, you could feel her pride, her unabashed joy, and all the beautiful plans she had for the two of them.

When Ashli and Jake told stories about each other, they each lit up like they were talking about their favorite topic in the world, and could go on forever.”

This tragedy has sent a shockwave through the community and left many people hurting. If you would like to support our beloved Katie Loewen as she recovers from the accident that took Ashli from us, please visit the Gofundme below.

Support Katie Loewen's Recovery Journey