Peter D. Ascher, PhD, age 81, of Bowler, passed away on Thursday, March 10, 2022, in Shawano. He was born on January 4, 1941, to the late Felix J. and Rose M. (Sperberg) Ascher in Shawano. Peter was a professor of horticulture and genetics at the University of Minnesota until his retirement. He was very involved in research and development of new plant materials. He developed easter lilies in pink, yellow and orange, and a flower named after his mom, the Chrysanthemum – Rose Blush. Peter was past President of both the Minnesota State Horticultural Society and the North American Lily Society.  He was a member of St. Mary's Church in Leopolis, WI, where he sang in the choir and helped cook for Pete's Deli, the church brat stand. Peter enjoyed cooking, singing and acting at the Mielke Theater in Shawano.

He is survived by: his sisters, Mary (David) Sund of Minneapolis, MN, and Rita Skalecki of Green Bay, WI; and sister-in-law, Candy Ascher of Shawano, WI. He is further survived by nieces, nephews and friends.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Rose; brother, Rev. Michael Ascher, sister, Patricia Ascher, and brother-in-law, David Skalecki.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, at St. Mary's Church in Leopolis with Fr. Ed Siguenza and Deacon Howard Bricco officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery next to his father. Visitation will be held at 9:30 am on Wednesday at the church until the time of service.