Richard James Ford

FORD, Richard J. – Age 73, of Grand Blanc, died Saturday, January 29, 2011 at his home. Mr. Ford was born December 31, 1937 in Detroit the son of James and Eileen Ford. He was a graduate of U of M where he received a Masters Degree in Business. Richard retired from Ford Motor Co., Tractor Division where he worked in Purchasing. From a young age Richard began collecting stamps and coins. This led him to collecting toy cars and trucks which became his passion. He was a member of the Antique Toy Collectors Club and Richard authored the only Resource Book on Antique Toy Stoves. After dating for nine years Richard married Joan Clark in 1992 who survives him. Also surviving are children, Lori Ford, Ingrid (Terry McMann) Ford, Jacquie (Rod) Golightly, Jerry (Kim) Barnes, Joanna (Bub) Simon; grandchildren, Stephanie Simon, Katharine Golightly, Duke Simon, Michael Golightly, Morgan and Maddison Simon, Lindsay Barnes, Matthew Barnes. Mr. Ford was preceded in death by his daughter, Sonya Ford and his parents James and Eileen Ford. Friends may visit the family from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hill Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, February 3, 2011 at the funeral home. Pastor Tom Van Wise and Rev. Rodney Golightly will co-officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to First Wesleyan Church.