Thomas F. Ford

Thomas F. Ford

Thomas Ford Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Mar. 9 to Mar. 11, 2007.
FORD
THOMAS F.
Age 56, of Morningside, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 7, 2007, after a brief illness. Son of the late Dr. John M. and Loretto O'Toole Ford; He is survived by his loving daughters Rebecca A., Molly O. and Colleen M., and his companion and best friend, Judy Archidiacono; He is also survived by his brother, Michael J. and his sisters, Elizabeth, Mary Campbell, Loretto Crane, Judge Kate Ford Elliott and Rita Chmill. Tom, a City of Pittsburgh firefighter, was a 1968 graduate of Central Catholic High School. Following high school, Tom served as a Navy Corpsman and then became one of the city's first paramedics shortly after the department was formed in 1975. Tom joined the Pittsburgh Fire Bureau in 1989. "Doc," as he was known to many firefighters and friends, continued his emergency medical services expertise by teaching at Community College of Allegheny County and has been an instructor for the past 3 1/2 years at the Fire Bureau's Training Academy. Tom will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by his family, his friends and all whose lives he touched, saved and helped along the way. Friends received at McCABE BROTHERS, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 6214 Walnut St., Shadyside, on Saturday and Sunday, 2-4 & 7-9 PM. Funeral will commence at the funeral home on Monday at 9:00 AM, followed by Mass of Christian Burial in Sacred Heart Church at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to IAFF Local #1 Memorial Fund, PO Box 8460, Pgh. Pa. 15220.
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March 8, 2008

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March 1, 2008

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March 27, 2007

Harvey and Susan Eger posted to the memorial.

A man of a different beat: "How else could I run into a burning building when everyone else is running out or drive through a red light at high speeds without being stopped?"

March 8, 2008

Sally O'Donnell

March 1, 2008

Tom-
It's hard to believe that it's almost a year since you left us. I pray that you are resting in peace now. I want to thank you for the most precious gifts that you gave me--Becky, Molly and Colleen. I know that they will miss you forever! I also know that we will all meet in that field someday--as the poet Rumi said,
"Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing,
there is a field. I'll meet you there.
When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about. Ideas, language, even the phrase each other doesn't make any sense."

Namaste, Tom!

Love,

Harvey and Susan Eger

March 27, 2007

To the Ford Family. Our deepest sympathies on your loss. We are sorry that we could not personally pay our respects.

Susan Urbanek

March 23, 2007

Katie, John and I were very sorry to hear about your brother Tom. You and your family have our sincere sympathy at this sorrowful time. Please know that your family will be in our prayers. Love, Susan (Zinsser) & John Urbanek

MARIE O'BRIEN

March 19, 2007

FORD FAMILY,

Please accept our deepest sympathies.
We were so sorry to hear of your loss.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF
PITTSBURGH FIREFIGHTERS' FCU

suzanne salisbury

March 16, 2007

mccaffery and ford together again is the first thing I thought when I heard of toms passing. He has blessed my life with his knowledge and I have had the pleasure of him teaching two of my daughters and many friends. I will miss him and his madress shorts (seven springs). You will live for ever in our hearts and in our professionalizem with our patients. Thank Mr Ford

Dave Grady

March 14, 2007

hey tom, remember the last time we talked in the hospitial? and you were thanking me.Well Tom, it was i who should have been thanking you! Rest well my firiend, till we meet again someday.

Jen Swab

March 13, 2007

It’s a hard thing to do…..put Tom Ford into words. What an inspiration he was. Just look around, and listen. He’s there. Every day his memory echoes in the firehouses and on the streets, in teaching institutions and coffee shops, in homes and churches, and in “gathering places”. What an impact on this world he had in such a small amount of time. I’m proud to have known him and known him well enough to try to carry on a piece of the legacy that he left in all of us. How did he have all that time to spend so much time with all of us? It’s like he lived 100 hours in every day.

To Tom’s family, we will miss his smiling face and carefree disposition, his gentle touch and jovial personality, his skill and knowledge, his respect for human life, and those deep, caring eyes. The eyes that knew who all of us were - the eyes that touched our souls when he looked at us.

Although no one can ever take away our memories, it hurts that we can never share life with him again - to know that we can’t pick up the phone and call him just to say “hi” or tap into his vast knowledge of public safety. He was a master at everything he did – Master Tom Ford. He had all of us believing that he would live forever. But he left one word out – ‘on’. He will live ON forever. Yes, he will. Just look around, and listen......................

Love from The Swabs: Ray, Jen, Timmy, Katie, Marie, Nicholas, and Jessica

Catherine O'Connor Coyne

March 12, 2007

Dear Ford Family:
With Deepest Sympathy and Sincere Condolences on your loss.
O'Connor Family

Larry Schwadron

March 12, 2007

Dear Ford Family, I always consider Tom to be a special friend and a true HERO. He will be sorely missed. The Schwadron Family

Patsy Smith

March 12, 2007

To Judy and Tom's Family,
We are so sorry about Tom. We had such a nice afternoon and lunch with you the last time we were in Pittsburgh. Love, Patsy.

Bill Gray

March 12, 2007

To the Ford Family:
I am very sorry to hear about Tom passing away. I was out of town and just got the news. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Bill Gray

David Hoechstetter

March 12, 2007

To the entire Ford family I would like to express my deepest condolences. I first worked with Tom at Zepfel Ambulance and later in the City's EMS. As a mentor, his tremendous knowledge amazed me. I always found his gentle spirit and unshakable calm most reassuring. The world and public safety has suffered a deep loss with Tom's passing - he will be missed.

Paula

March 12, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Ford family. I am thankful for the opportunity that I had to get to know Tom at the Training Academy. I had the pleasure of working with him while conducting Fire Recruit exams. He made working there enjoyable with his jokes and fun-loving personality. I will certainly miss stopping in to see him when my work takes me to the Academy. I always looked forward to his smile and latest joke.

Connie Trama (from CCAC)

March 12, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the Ford family and to Judy and her girls. Tom will be missed so much...he has touched peoples lives in so many great different ways. He is and always will be in my heart a true friend and a wonderful man that i got to know. TOM I WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH!!!

Rosalyn Woods

March 12, 2007

To the Ford Family: I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I will always remember Tom & Stanley some years ago when the medics had the annual Bed Race thru Schenley Park. Still have a photo of them with a young Molly as the
"patient".

MARGO Rusbarsky

March 11, 2007

I was trying to find the words to say how the world has lost such a good man, father, medic, firefighter, friend, instructor, confidante and mentor. All of you have my deepest sympathy, love, prayers, and thoughts. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. Tom, Rest in Peace and look down upon us who are left to carry on. Margo Pittsburgh Rescue & Monroeville FD

The Krason's

March 11, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Will Clark

March 11, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Ford family. Tom will truly be missed but never forgotten. May God bless you and keep you in the comfort of his loving arms.

LuAnne Butera-Welsh

March 11, 2007

I worked with Tom as a graduate nurse many years ago and was sad when I heard the news. He was a wonderful, caring, and humorous person. I loved working with him in the emergency room of Central Medical and have thought of him often as he was one of those people that made a lasting impression. He was an asset in the medical community and will be greatly missed.

Mary Catherine Clarke

March 11, 2007

To Tom's family, please accept my condolances. I met Tom in the early 1980's on many occasions, when he worked as a paramedic for the City.
I had a job as manager at a Residential program for Elderly/Mentally Ill adults located in Oakland. Frequently we required the help of Paramedics; the clients fell down, or took too many pills...I guess Tom Ford had the "Oakland Route" because most often a kind, confident, and obviusly IIRISH paramedic arrived at our Group Home to take care of my client.
It was clear that Tom was a person who respected ALL people. He went above and beyond to assure my client's safety and comfort, and to comfort the rest of the clients and staff. Many people would rather ignore such vulnerable citizens, or provide the most mnimal amount of care. Not Tom Ford, he was always patient, and efficient, and kind.
A few years later, I left my job, and was out with my sister who introduced me to her friend from Federated, Rita. Rita was telling us an animated and funny story about her brother, the paramedic, I said "Do you mean Tom Ford?" Of course there could be only one!
So respectful, and caring and confident. Tom was a gift to me and to people I saw him take care of. It was truly a pleasure to know him. Thank you for allowing me to share this. Mary Catherine Clarke

Mary Connolly Silver

March 11, 2007

Through out Tom's life his daughters brought him his greatest joy. From the time Becky wrapped her tiny fingers around his finger Tom was hooked. Molly's energy for life's adventure captured his amazement, as Colleen's sweet nature captured his heart. His love lives on within the hearts of his three beautiful daughters.

SCOTT MUTO

March 11, 2007

YOU WILL BE MISSED DEARLY TOMMY. GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP A WATCHFUL EYE ON YOUR FELLOW BROTHERS.

Ken Burns

March 11, 2007

My condolences on the loss of Tom. I had known Tom while I was a paramedic with the city. Tom was a person of sincere dedication to his job and to his teaching. Everyone who knew Tom will feel a loss at his passing.

Ken Burns
Retired Pittsburgh Paramedic

Don Geisler, EMT(Thanks to Tom)

March 11, 2007

To all in the Ford family.... My deepest sympathy to you for Tom's passing. He was my EMT instructor 7 years ago, and what an instructor he was. Always knowing how to brighten the mood in the room, and how to command attention without sayin but a few words. Others I know who've had Tom as an instructor or co-worker, would share the same thoughts, of a great great man, who truly dedicated his life in the preservation of all in and around Pittsburgh. A sad day for us all. Take light in knowing that a man who gave so much, didn't deserve any suffering, and only endured a short time, and is now at rest, a rest he's worked hard for his entire life. We'll all miss you Tom, and know you'll keep us straight from above.

Jack O'Malley

March 11, 2007

My prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time. Sorry I cannot be with you as I am out of town. Peace and Sympathy, Jack O'Malley

Scott Bierman

March 11, 2007

It is with sadness that I have found that one of my mentor's has passed. To the Ford family I offer my deepest condolences. T took me under his wing when I worked with him at Zepfel's many many years ago. T precepted me on numerous calls too when he was a city medic. Public safety as a whole, has lost one of the greats. It is however, so much richer from Tom's contribution in his quality care and his education of future personnel. Rest in peace my friend, you have served your greater calling here with excellence and so too you will do in heaven.

Frank Becker Jr.

March 11, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

George m Gaines

March 11, 2007

My heartfelt condolences to the ford family. I have worked with Tom when he first started with the City when he transported pt to Presbyterian University hospital Emergency Dept. Tom was one of the calmest Medic you ever like to see noting rattled this man. He took care of his patients as though they were related him. And even before he became an instructor he was teaching as a crew chief.When we found out he was going to become a firefighter we were a little shaken up at Presby ED because of the kind of care he was giveing to the community and that we would not see him as much however we still see the results of his training to others we can always tell what paramedic or EMT was trained by Tom because of the signature care was always given to the patients. Those of us have been around for while most sorely miss this great man.And know that the doors of haven are wide open to him that god needed him there with him. Well done Tom Well done

sue albinger

March 11, 2007

oh my deepest sympathy to Becky and your family My prayers are with you all. He was a great man and father. May he rest in peace.

Ed Bruni

March 11, 2007

You will be sadly missed, you are one of the best teachers I ever had , thank you

John and Glenda Stavroulakis

March 10, 2007

Judge Kate Ford Elliott
and Family,
Please accept our deepest condolences in the passing of your brother. May it help to lessen your sorrow, knowing that we care. God bless each of you during this most difficult time in your lives and may Thomas' memory be eternal.
With Sincere Sympathy,

Melissa McNally

March 10, 2007

Words could not nearly express the impact you had on my life. Its hard to believe that being a paramedic student in your class 11 years ago would lead to a lifetime of friendship. You were my instructor, mentor, father, and friend. I am a better person for having known you and for having you in my life. You will always be in my thoughts and in my heart.
Love Always,
Melissa
Michael & Daniel McNally.

Tom & Melissa McNally Seven Springs 2005

March 10, 2007

Tom & Daniel McNally March 2005

March 10, 2007

John Bycura

March 10, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Ford Family. I had the honor of Tom being my 1st Crew Chief when he was with EMS. He left a lasting impression on me. He leaves a legacy that will never be replaced. He will be forever remembered in our hearts.

Lori Hartman

March 10, 2007

To the Ford family and friends,
Tom was a daily fixture at Terry Villa where he was always quick with a joke or a zinger to get everyone laughing. He was so sweet when we closed our doors, taking pictures of our family and friends and compiling them for us as gifts. He was always great to be around (unless we were out of meatballs)! We've all lost a good friend. Our hearts are with you all.

Harold L. Butler

March 10, 2007

Tom will be missed by all who came to know him, for he was a good friend and great person to work with and talk to. He could always be counted on for sound advice.
I enjoyed working with him as a fireman and will miss him. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and fellow medics and firemen.

Love in Christ Jesus,
Harold L. Butler
("KARO")

Jeff Kelly

March 10, 2007

Tom touched so many people in so many different ways. I am glad that I got to say thank you for helping me get to where I am today. He was my Paramedic instructor, and without him, I certainly would not have achieved my position in EMS. To his family, please know that Tom is deeply respected/admired among ALL in Fire/EMS. God bless you during this time

Raymond Adomonis

March 10, 2007

Dear Ford Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one. I did not know Mr. Ford, except for what I've heard from the way firefighters talked about him around the "Sally Wagon". I could tell from their comments that he was a special kind of person, and was held in high respect by his fellow firefighters, and all those who knew him.
Tom has gone home in the arms of his Creator, joining the rank of Guardian Angel, just like the loved ones who have gone on ahead of him. He will be watching over all those he loves; as much as the loved ones will be looking skyward with memories and thoughts of him.
So when you feel warmth on a chilly night, a cool breeze on a hot summer day, or a bright shining moon on the darkest of
nights, it will be Tom's way of letting you know he's around,
keeping watch over you.
I would also like to express my thanks to Mr. Ford and all Firefighters and EMT's, (past, present, and future), for the sacrifices they make, to allow everyday people like me to enjoy a good nights sleep, knowing that they are out there protecting me.

Kurt Henkel

March 10, 2007

I am very sorry for your families loss and to hear of Tom’s passing…he was a great guy and will be missed.

Bob & Charlotte O'Toole

March 10, 2007

With deepest sympathy, we offer our sincere condolences to Becky, Molly & Colleen, to Judy, and to all of our Ford cousins.

Ray Masa

March 10, 2007

Tom was a great instructor in the fact that he was patient and knew what he was talking about. I got the chance of seeing him work on the streets while I rode along at station 8. He will be missed.

Jim,Patty, Linda, and Laura Ellenbogen

March 10, 2007

Kate
Our deepest Sympathy on the loss of your brother to you, your family, and the O'tooles. We are saddened by your loss

Stacy Spotts Lemmon

March 10, 2007

I'm so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He taught my EMT class years ago. He is the type of person that affects your life and you will never forget him.

Ron Rompala

March 10, 2007

Dear Family,
Tom taught me how to keep it together under the most stressful of life saving circumstances. Teaching the unknown to the people who really need to know it is difficult at best, and Tom always excelled with his usual, quiet confidence. He will be missed by many, and admired by more. May God's love comfort you through your sadness.

Michael and Doris Neibauer

March 9, 2007

To the Ford family,

My sympathies to you all at this difficult time. I had worked with Tom from time to time. He was the best instructor that we had. He was a down to earth, friendly guy. I am proud to considered him a friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Michelle, Tom, & Tammy after a hard day of teaching

March 9, 2007

March 9, 2007

We Love You Ford

March 9, 2007

Michelle & Chris Rud

March 9, 2007

Tom was truly a great friend to myself and my husband. We have been assisting him in teaching EMT courses for 9 years. He always knew how to make us laugh and how to get a rise out me. Seven Springs will not be the same without him. May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, The rain fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand (Author unknown). I just pray that you don't dance for him.. Love Always,

Bill O'Toole

March 9, 2007

I want to express my deepest sympathy to Tom’s daughters, to Judy, and to all of my Ford family cousins, Tom’s friends, and his Fire Department colleagues. I had the sincere pleasure of spending a little time with Tom at a family gathering recently after not having seen him in (too) many years. I immediately found Tom to be the same funny, witty, and caring person that he had always been with my siblings and me during our childhood. Everyone present shared non-stop, gut-wrenching laughter for several hours courtesy of this wonderful, family-oriented man. My biggest regret is that I had not kept in closer touch with Tom over the years. I am pleased to know, however, that his compassion and his laughter have touched so many others throughout the years.

Tom, you were a true and dedicated public servant who has provided comfort and aid to so many people over the years during times of crisis and great need. May God find a special place for you to serve as heaven’s “Doc” and may He make available an appropriate dose of your comfort for your family and friends!

Jim & Marian Sutton

March 9, 2007

To all members of the Ford family: Our deepest sympathy. I knew Tommy from Sacred Heart, Central Catholic, and worked with him at Pgh EMS. My wife remembers him from Mercy ER where she worked, and from the many picnics and parties we all attended. Tommy will always have a warm spot in our hearts. He was an exceptional guy, good friend, and great medic. I would like to contribute a brick engraved "THOMAS F. FORD, USN" to be placed in our new Gettysburg American Legion Post 202 "Wall of Honor", to commemorate and honor his Navy service. There are already hundreds of bricks in place - a most impressive sight.

William Wasielewski ( Wasie )

March 9, 2007

Tom will be truely missed. I had the pleasure of meeting Tom a few years back and had the pleasure of teaching along with Tom and becoming good friends. I can truely say that it was Tom that I have to thank for inspiring me to become a EMT and now a Paramedic for the City also. I will definitley miss Toms humor, love for life and his work. I send my sincere sympathy to Toms family for their loss and wish Tom Godspeed.

Erm Buccina

March 9, 2007

you inspired me running the streets of the burg when I didn't think I could go another mile but would never stop because of you...that inspiration carries over to my life as well...Thanks my friend
ermie b

Tim Yakich

March 9, 2007

Tom was one of the truly good guys on the fire department that I have gotten to know over the past 12 years. He will be sadly missed.

Amy Demeri

March 9, 2007

Becky, Molly and Family,

I am deeply sorry to hear of the passing of your father. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all during this time.

Sheila Young

March 9, 2007

To Tom's daughters, all of my Ford cousins and Judy,

A huge, happy part of life is gone with the loss of Tommy. Allow me to be with you in spirit this weekend as you celebrate Tom's life and remember him.

With love and grateful memories,
Your cousin,
Sheila O'Toole Young

Melissa Mazza

March 9, 2007

To all of Tom's family... I am very sorry for your loss. Tom was one of the best guys I new growing up on Antietam Street! Becky, Molly, Colleen, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Robert Hanna

March 9, 2007

The family of Doc has my sorrow. Doc worked at my station that i retired from and he knew my daughter who is in the medical field. He sent me out a T shirt a few years ago and i still have iyt and every time i put it on i think of him and his lobve for people and the fire service. He is at peace now and missed by a lot of friends.
Retired Capt
Robert A. Hanna ENG 8

Ruth Brannigan

March 9, 2007

Love of family was one of Tommy's most endearing qualities. It always struck me how he adored and cared for his Mom in such a tender manner. His daughters were his pride and joy. Some of my fondest memories include Tom, especially when his alias was "T". Whether in Pittsburgh or Washington, he was always dependable and uplifting company. The world is a little duller since his smile and giggle have moved on. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Nan Pischke

March 9, 2007

Dear Rebecca, Molly, Colleen, Michael, Elizabeth,Mary, Loretto, Kate and Rita,

I was so sorry to read of your dad and brother's passing. Please accept my family's deepest condolences.

I'll always remember your dad/brother for when he treated me when my car was wrecked on Morningside Avenue. We're riding over to St. Margaret's he's asking questions. Kevin Keyho who was in the car with me, told me who Tom was and I said "Ya, he's my cousin." And Tom just looked at me. I then went on to tell him how we were related.

Please know that my prayers are with you all. A candle will be lit for you today at St. Mary of Mercy.

Love,
Franny and Nan Pischke

Whens Happy Hour ?!!!

March 9, 2007

Tom Fitzgerald

March 9, 2007

I will deeply miss you T-Ball. My mother always asked me about her coffee buddy. I didn't get a chance to say goodby. Godspeed my friend you done good.

Tammy Buckner

March 9, 2007

FORD, You are a very dear friend to many & you will be greatly missed, it has been a pleasure to work with you & for you for the past 7 years, & I love you dearly & always will. My sincerest thoughts are with your family & friends at this time!! Ford your the man !!!! Love always BLONDIE !!!!

Richard R. 'Dick' O'Toole

March 9, 2007

Deep sympathy and prayer go out to all of Tom's family today and in the days ahead. May he rest in peace.

Ginger Gannis

March 9, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

Kate McCauley Arndt

March 9, 2007

Tom will be sadly missed. He touched so many lives, and shared so much knowledge with so many people. He will forever be remembered. My deepest condolences.

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