John Edward Ford

April 10, 1945 - March 9, 2022

SAN DIEGO, CA —

John Edward Ford (JEF) passed away peacefully at Activcare Mission Bay, with his Life Partner of 26 years, by his side.

Love and fond memories never die.

John was born in Osage, IA, on April 10, 1945. He attended Holy Name School in Omaha, Nebraska, through high school and then enrolled at the University of Nebraska Omaha campus. He earned a BS Degree in Business Administration in 1969. John became an active member of Delta Sigma Pi, Gamma Eta Chapter while attending the University.

His professional career began in Human Resources with Boyle Engineering in Orange County. Company management encouraged John to consider Law School, so he enrolled in Pepperdine University’s program in 1973. John received his Juris Doctor Degree in May 1976. He was admitted to the CA State Bar in February 1977.

A majority of John’s career was spent with The Travelers Insurance Company (Citi Group). Under The Travelers, the Law Offices of John E. Ford were established in Newport Beach, with a second office opening in Del Mar. During his tenure with The Travelers / Citi Group John was a lead manager within the Legal Department and planned numerous ‘retreats’ and ‘leadership seminars’ for his many colleagues. John retired from Citi Group in July of 2010.

During retirement, John volunteered with Shanti Orange County in Laguna Beach, and with Mama’s Kitchen in San Diego. He loved to read, to travel, attend Broadway shows in NYC, the Palm Springs International Film Festival, the San Diego and Santa Fe opera, and spend time with friends and neighbors.

John was deeply loved and respected. He had a contagious smile and offered help to anyone in need.

John was preceded in death by his father Frank, mother Ramona and brother Bob. John is survived by his Lifepartner Larry Ganzell, his daughter Jennifer Walker (Keith), his son John Thomas (Nikki), grandsons Jackson Walker and JT Thomas and granddaughters Sofia Walker and Ashlee Thomas.

John is also survived by siblings Clara, Kit, Mary Jo (Noel), Joe (Judith) and Charlie, and his closest friends Phil, Tony, Darrin, Bob and Terry.

John’s family and friends wish to express their special appreciation to the staff at Activcare Mission Bay and the staff of Comfort & Peace Hospice for the help and support John and the family received while John was in their care.

The date for a celebratory Mass is pending. A Celebration of Life will be held in San Diego in the Summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s San Diego or to Jacobs Cushman Food Bank, San Diego.

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