James Patrick Ford

James Patrick "Pat" Ford, 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Salinas, California, on October 20 after a long battle with cancer. A memorial service is planned for Tuesday, November 11, 11:00 am, at St. Paul San Pablo Episcopal Church in Salinas.
Pat was born to Ada Lou (Wolf) Ford on December 18, 1944, while his father, Charles Lafayette Ford, was missing in action in the Battle of the Bulge. After his father returned from service, Pat's family eventually settled in Vista, California. Pat was active in debate and public speaking activities throughout his time at Vista High School, where he graduated in 1962. Pat studied public speaking at Palomar College, Pasadena College, and UCLA. He enlisted in the US Army in 1967 after completing his collegiate studies. In 1968, he married Janette Ellen Flory, whom he had met at Pasadena.
While stationed at Fort Ord in California, Pat began working with HumRRO, a human resource and training research firm with multiple military contracts. He continued this work as a civilian until his retirement in 2005. For many in his generation, having a nondescript occupation with close ties to the military was a cover for high-level espionage. Much to the chagrin of his children, Pat's actual occupation was about as exciting as "human resource research" sounds.
Through his work with HumRRO, Pat and Janette moved to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1972. During this time, daughter Audrey Rebecca and son Joseph David were born. In 1987, Pat and family returned to the Monterey, California, area.
Among several interests, Pat particularly enjoyed golfing, gardening, writing, and birdwatching. He loved many types of music and encouraged his children to pursue their musical interests, even when that involved opera and free jazz. He was long involved with the Nazarene and later Episcopalian churches. He was a lifelong fan of the San Francisco Giants, which may speak to enduring faith more than any church affiliation. He will long be remembered for his humor, wit, and generosity.
Pat is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janette; daughter, Audrey (Mark) Weed of Escondido, California; son, Joseph (Karen Downey) of Cortland, New York; grandchildren, Ella R. Weed, Sarah V. Weed, Daniel W. Downey Ford, and David P. Downey Ford; sister, Joyce (Paul) Lorenzen; brother, Daniel Ford; and many nieces and nephews.