Michael E. Ford, 60, of Washington, passed away at 10:30 p.m., Saturday, July 10, 2010 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Mike was born on July 6, 1950 in Peoria to Eugene and Joanne Grant Ford. He married Betty Waughop in Washington on August 24, 1974. Betty survives.
Also surviving is one daughter, Katie Marie (Donald) Devoe of Washington; his three loving grandchildren, Izabella Ford and Hannah and Zachory Devoe; one sister, Pam Lawless of Washington; one brother, Randy (Sharon) Ford of Chillicothe; two special sisters, Jackie and Terry; a special brother, Earl and several loving nieces and nephews. Mike was also preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Timothy and W.P.
Mike retired in 2001 from UPS after being a driver for 26 years. Prior to that Mike had been a driver for Producer’s Dairy in Peoria doing home delivery. But, his favorite job was just in the last few years being a driver for ATS and the special kids that he made sure got to school ok. In his spare time he also delivered medications to shut in’s in the Washington area for CVS.
Mike enjoyed playing golf, fishing and just recently started some target shooting. He loved going to flea markets in the area with Earl and collecting for the ME Junque, Corp. Mike also loved to cook, especially for family get togethers. He was an avid Euchre player with many special Euchre friends in the area, playing regularly at either Eastport Marina or TomCats in Peoria.
Mike also enjoyed collecting hot wheel’s to add to his collection or for his grandson Zachory’s collection. He was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Washington.
As one who lived life to the fullest, Mike was a totally fun guy who always had a smile for everyone and loved life.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church with Pastor John Bates officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Mason-White Funeral Home and from 10 to 10:45 prior to the service at the church. Cremation rites will be accorded following the service.
Memorials may be made to the St. Mark’s Daycare Center.