Richard Dale Ford

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard (Dick) Ford on May 4, 2023, at the age of 89, in Renton, Washington. He was a good and faithful Christian, kind-hearted, strong, caring, and generous. Family was everything to him. He made friends wherever he went. Dick left this world with integrity, dignity, and courage, as he displayed throughout his life.

He grew up on a farm in Mooreton, North Dakota, and was the eldest of 4 sons and a daughter. He attended the North Dakota State School of Science. He then attended and graduated from the University of North Dakota earning a degree in Business Administration. During his time at the University of North Dakota, he was in the North Dakota National Guard for 2 years. After college, he joined the Army but couldn’t continue because of his eyesight.

Dick moved to Wichita, Kansas after graduation and started his career at Boeing as a Cost Accountant and then, later, as a Tool and Production Planner. He met the love of his life, Margaret Ann, at a Christian singles group in Wichita. They married, and at the same time, transferred to Boeing in Renton,

Washington to start a family with daughter, Pamela, and a son, Mark. They would have a loving marriage sharing many joys and overcoming challenges, together, along the way. They were married for 54 years. Renton was their home until the big Boeing layoff of 1970. Then, they moved to Oklahoma to take over Margaret Ann’s family farm. Boeing called Dick back to work 6 short months later. They then settled into the house in Renton, where he lived until nearly his last days. Dick became legally blind at age 45. He did not let his lack of eyesight stand in his way. He kept his job at Boeing for many years after and walked to work when he was unable to drive. He overcame every obstacle and was an inspiration to his family for his determination and grit.

Dick was an avid motorcyclist in his younger years. He rode his motorcycle coast to coast with his pup tent. He loved adventure and seeing new places

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Dick is survived by daughter, Pamela (John); son, Mark; grandchildren, Justin, Marissa, Quin, and Madeline; 2 brothers, Harold and Gene, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Memorial Service be held on Saturday, May 20th at Noon at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Renton, followed by a reception.