George Edward Ford Jr.

George Edward Ford Jr. was born May 10, 1940 in Norfolk, VA. A memorial celebration of his life will take place at a time in the future. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice, Dementia Research or your local food bank would be appreciated. George was one of the kindest people I know, he was a thoughtful, loving partner and friend. Growing up on the Chesapeake Bay he enjoyed fishing and continued with that after moving to the West Coast, chasing the sockeye salmon run each year in Alaska. He was always happiest outside. George is survived by his wife, Nancy, two sons, Gregory and Matthew, their wives, Nanci and Sue and five grandchildren. He is also survived by a step-son, Steve, his wife, Storey and their three daughters. George was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and George Sr. of Norfolk VA and a sister, Joyce Ann also of Norfolk VA. He attended school in Norfolk VA, graduating from Granby High School and then attended William and Mary College in Williamsburg VA for a year before entering the U.S. Army. After the Army he returned to college, graduating from Old Dominion College in Norfolk VA with a degree in Business. He began his career as a labor specialist then Personnel Administrator for the Department of the Navy at Norfolk Naval Air Station. In 1988 he transferred to the Naval base at Sigonella in Sicily IT where he worked for two years. That position afforded him travel through Europe. Upon his return to the U.S. he moved to Bremerton WA ending his career at the Bremerton Naval Shipyard as a personnel administrator in 1993. George was a life-long gardener, and after retiring he took up photography that paired with his passion for travel. He enjoyed expedition kayaking with a group of close friends taking him into the San Juan Island, Canadian Gulf Island, along the British Columbia coast and Alaska. George loved the outdoors along with his wife, Nancy. They spent time traveling in the U.S. and in many foreign countries. George also enjoyed hiking in the mountains, camping in their VW van, biking and cross country skiing. He was always happiest outdoors.