Patricia Jo (“Pat”) Ford, 88, of Ventura, CA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 13, 2024, in Ventura, CA. Pat was born in Centralia, WA to Richard Holm and Esther Clevinger Holm, on August 15, 1935. She graduated in 1954 from Stadium High School in Tacoma, WA. She went on to work for a WA state representative before moving to California. She served three decades in the accounting department for the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, and Department of Defense before retiring from Port Hueneme, CA.
She graced this world with class and style and enjoyed bestowing gifts on others. She loved travelling and saw much of Europe and Hawaii during her retirement. She was an avid knitter, enjoyed reading a good mystery series, and loved tennis. She appreciated the beauty of nature, a good white Russian, and a clever joke. But, most of all, she loved a slow dance with the love of her life. Although, of all the things she loved in this world, cooked carrots were not one of them, and she was good at reminding us daily. She listened more than she spoke, saving her quick wit for perfect moments. She greeted the world with her soft voice and brilliant smile.
She is survived by many people she loved, including her husband, Thomas Ford, of Ventura, CA, her children, Ronda Fletcher and husband Lonnie Fletcher of Forsyth, MO, Gregory Gangwes and wife Arnie Gangwes of the Philippines, Bradley Gangwes of Ventura, CA, Steven Gangwes of Honolulu, HI, and Dr. Sheila Ford and husband Dr. Fred Mading of Tustin, CA, as well as two nephews, ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and older sister, Lois Bradford and husband Ken Bradford of Auburn, WA.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to their extended family, Jill-Karen Morrill, Laurie Lemson, Doug Matter, and Donnie Lenzi for their care and friendship, and to Wayan Legawa and the wonderful caregivers at Home Sweet Home in Ventura, CA. Special thanks to Monique and Susan of Assisted Hospice.
Pat was a beloved life partner, mother, Oma, and friend. She will be dearly missed by many.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.