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In tribute to him Sunday, Jennifer Ashton posted a message on Facebook and Instagram:
"Our hearts r broken that the father of my teenage children took his own life yesterday. As an MD he helped so many and we will remember his warmth generosity and kindness. We know that many families struggle everyday with depression while others like us don’t have any warning.
"We hope by sharing some of Rob’s story it will save others the heartache we feel. You are never alone Pls get help. May Rob Rest In Peace, forever in our hearts."
‘Jen and her children are heartbroken," ABC News president James Goldston wrote to his staff, "but they know many families struggle with depression, some for years while others, like them, have no warning."
Robert Ashton, 52, lived across the street from his wife's home in the Modern -- with its views of the bridge.
The Ashtons moved from Englewood to Fort Lee two years ago. They had two teenage children.
Robert Ashton had his own television success as a healthcare industry expert and contributor on Fox News and MSNBC, along with appearances on "The Today Show," "NBC Nightly News" and "CBS World News."
He had been chief of thoracic surgery and vice-chairman of the Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, director of thoracic surgery at Montefiore Medical Center and director of surgery at St. Luke’s Hospital, among other positions.
Ashton served as the chief medical officer at MYOS Corporation from April 2014 to February 2016 and also is a member of its Scientific Advisory Board.
The 25-year veteran had extensive experience in clinical medicine and academic research and lectured, performed surgery, and taught nationally and internationally.
He also published more than 75 original manuscripts and abstracts.
Ashton's body was recovered from an area of Palisades Interstate Park along the Hudson known as Hazard's Dock shortly after he jumped around 8:40 a.m. Saturday, authorities said.
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