Nick Ford

Nick was a gentle and caring soul with a wicked sense of humor and a shy smile. He loved his family fiercely, his friends unabashedly and his dogs wholeheartedly.

He enjoyed sports -- playing or watching. More than a specific team (other than the Vikings and UofA Wildcats) he just seemed to enjoy the games. He watched a lot of tennis…he would even set the alarm for 3am to watch Rafael Nadal!

He delighted in traveling -- his trip to Africa was one of his most treasured memories. He generously shared his culinary expertise while giving credit to his mother. He was chivalrous like his father. He lived the values he learned from his parents: a strong work ethic, decency to all, competence, and dependability.

Nick was born (1961-09-06) and raised in Douglas, AZ. He attended Western New Mexico University in Silver City, NM. He also lived in Los Angeles, CA, Colorado Springs, CO, Broussard, LA and Flagstaff, AZ before settling in Tucson, AZ. He made friends wherever he went, stayed in touch with them, and remained a caring listener and cheerleader in their lives.

Knowing Nick was a blessing, for he elevated all the lives he touched. He had the gift of making all his friends think they were the most special to him (they were correct and knew it).

Nick committed wholeheartedly to everything he did. He was extremely proud of helping to start and run Freedom House, a sober living house for women recovering from addiction in Flagstaff, AZ. Many women who turned their lives around there continued to be part of his life. Nick was a dedicated, hardworking (sometimes too hardworking!) employee, most recently at DLH Corporation in Tucson. Over the years, many co-workers became life-long friends.

Nick was preceded in death by his father Leon Ford, nephew Hector Salcido.

Nick leaves to cherish his loving memory his mother Maria Teresa “Terry” Ford, siblings Maxine Gladney, Gustavo (Lisa) Romero, Dona, Doris, Leon Jr and Dottie Ford. Several nephews, nieces, godchildren and many distant relatives and friends throughout the country will mourn our loss as well.

Nick’s untimely passing is heartbreaking, but everyone who met him is grateful for every moment and for the deep and meaningful relationship he had with each of them.

A celebration of life will be help at 10:00AM on May 31st at East Long Palms Mortuary 5801 E. Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712.

Please add In lieu of flowers, Nick’s family asks that donations be made in memory of Nick to Flagstaff Freedom House, 3801 N. Fanning Dr., Flagstaff AZ 86004 ATTN: Helen Dillander.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared on East Lawn Palms https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/tucson-az/nick-ford-10764046