Obituary of James Kenneth Ford

September 29, 1950 – June 25, 2024 

James Kenneth Ford, (Jim) was born on September 29, 1950, in Matheson, Ontario, and passed away peacefully June 25, 2024 surrounded by his loved ones. 

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Diana and his loving children: Jennifer Ford, Stephen Ford (Juliana Ceneda), and Jeré Kools (Eric Kools).  Cherished grandchildren are Leven, Francesca, and Walker.  

Jim was the beloved son of the late Henry and Maxine Ford of Strathroy, Ontario and will be missed by his brothers, sisters and large extended family.

Jim grew up in Strathroy and went to Colbourne St. Public School.   Friends remember him running around the neighbourhood playing catch and road hockey.  Jim was a great and loyal friend and always supported them when needed.

Jim was always active, excelling in minor league hardball and hockey (always as goalie). He continued playing recreational softball and hockey throughout the years with friends.

In his late teens, he could be seen driving around Strathroy in his pride and joy, a black 1967 Mustang GT convertible. He always had a love for Mustangs, and treated himself to a white convertible Mustang last year to show off around town.

Jim was always a dedicated hard worker, starting in Strathroy at Lamport’s Hardware Store and E.J. Wright Store Shelving, moving to Toronto as their Sales Rep.  Jim continued to work for other store fixture companies throughout his career, making friends and an extensive network across Southwestern Ontario and beyond.   

Jim was an active and dedicated current member of Hespeler Legion Branch 272. He recently served on the Branch 272 Executive Team.  Jim will be greatly missed by branch members for his friendship and contributions over the years. 

He was a member of the Beaver Masonic Lodge #83 Strathroy, Mocha Shriners and the Waterloo Oriental Band. 

Jim loved sitting on the porch having a beer on a Friday and Saturday night and visiting with the Heather Avenue neighbours. Great friendships have been made and will live on.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him. His legacy of love, kindness, and community spirit will live on. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 14, 2024,

Hespeler Legion Branch 272, 26 Schofield St. Cambridge, ON 

Legion Service: 12:45 pm– 1:30pm

Reception:  2:00pm – 4:00pm

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request that donations be made to

Innisfree House.  Donations can be made at www.lisaardandinnisfree.com 

Messages and condolences may be left at: www.strathroyfuneralhome.com