SPRINGFIELD – The namesake of the late register of Deeds, Donald Ashe, has announced he will run a sticker campaign to keep the office in the family.

Donald Ashe Jr. told Reminder Publications that he could see the Registry of Deeds “corrupted or dismantled” by whoever succeeded his late father.

He added he would only serve for one term and would donate his salary to charity.

Ashe added that he is a retired businessman with companies in computers and construction. He quickly noted that he wasn’t a politician.

He said he made his decision after his father’s death and the family had thought the elder Ashe would have been healthy enough to campaign past a September primary. Democrat and former state Rep. Cheryl Coakley Rivera and Longmeadow Select Board member and Republican Marie Angelides are the two candidates who will appear on the ballot.

Ashe wrote in his announcement statement, “I am the son of long time Register of Deeds Donald E Ashe who sadly passed away recently, after a long-distinguished career as the Register with a record second to none. He was able to do this with a dedication that is seldom seen these days, always striving for the best customer service and efficiency and always ahead of the curve using cutting edge ideas and technology. This was achieved through tireless work, but also because of a staff that cannot be rivaled. These wonderful people he did in fact consider his second family.

“I was fortunate to have an inside look and gain knowledge from the many talks with my father about all aspects of the Registry of Deeds. This insight gives me a unique perspective and coupled with my tireless work ethic instilled by my father and the United States Navy. I have the vision and drive to keep this office firing on all cylinders, just as my father did every day and just the way he would have wanted.

Unlike other candidates this is the first time I am seeking office. I am doing this for the people, not the pension or income. I pledge that I will provide the leadership needed to continue the advancements for the benefit of the citizens of Hampden County.”

Ashe said he sees the position as not a legislative one but an administrative one and that he is better qualified than either other candidate.

He said, “I can’t see losing jobs [in the office] or it openly crumbling due to unskilled management practices.”    

Although he has not yet scheduled a formal announcement or fundraiser, he said one would be forthcoming.

“I want to do it right,” he said of the sticker campaign. “I don’t want to throw money down a rabbit hole.”