Bill, as his friends and family knew him, was born May 17, 1932, in Hermiston, the son of William Roy Ford Sr. and Lola Mable Ford. He enjoyed growing up on a farm in Hermiston with his five siblings.
On May 25, 1950, Bill married Marion Lamont. Together they raised their four children. Bill was a police officer in The Dalles, Florence, and Reedsport for 10 years. After moving back to Hermiston, Bill worked for Rohrman Ford Motor Company, where he was recognized numerous times throughout his career for his service accomplishments and dedication to the company. Bill also donated much of his time to public service as an active member in the community. He played a significant role as a city council member, president of Kiwanis, and a member of various other community organizations. Bill was an avid reader, and he loved music and golf. He could often be found playing his piano with a grandchild sitting next to him. He also spent many days in his wood shop making beautiful pieces of art.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Marion Ford; daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Eric Hansen; son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Connie Ford III, son and daughter-in-law, Cary and Karen Ford, and son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Sylvia Ford. Bill was grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Ford, Dave Ford, and Don Ford, as well as his sisters Amy Bransken and Ada Otzenberger.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, at New Beginnings Church (700 W. Orchard Ave.) in Hermiston. The service will begin at 1 p.m. Memorial donations can be made in remembrance of Bill Ford to Vange John Memorial Hospice, 645 W. Orchard Ave., Suite 300, Hermiston, Ore., 97838.
Please send condolences at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
