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Christopher Ford Obituary
After a professional career traveling the world, Chris was happiest at home at the Jersey Shore. He loved nothing more than to spend his summers in Margate, admiring the sunset from his dock and taking his family and friends for rides on his boat. He spent his retirement years as a familiar face at so many Cape Atlantic League events where he supported not only his grandchildren but all of their teammates as well. His days were filled with attending soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, street hockey, and football games, as well as plays at the community theater and band concerts. He supported his grandchildren with complete devotion making their passions his own. Chris will always be remembered for his kind and generous nature. He was down-to-earth and had the uncanny ability to make everyone around him feel special. He was notorious for striking up conversations with those around him, especially parents in the bleachers and teenagers over 6 feet tall. He had an easy, genuine way about him that others couldn't help but feel. He was selfless with his time and fiercely loyal to his family, friends, and community. Despite all his successes, he never forgot where he came from, remaining committed to supporting those around him. He is survived by his wife, Kathy (Salerno); four children, Chris Jr. and his wife Danica (Coslop), Katie (DeRichie) and her husband John, Anthony and his wife Alyssa (Capasso), and Michael and his wife Maura (McGivern); seven grandchildren CJ, Chase, Isabella, Giuliana, Johnny, Ellis, and Celeste; his brother Raymond and wife Louise, and his sister Mae Lee; his mother-in-law Rita Salerno; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at Adams-Perfect Funeral Home in Northfield on Sunday, January 22 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. Visitation will also be held at St. Michael's Church in Atlantic City on Monday, January 23 from 9-11 AM, followed by a Catholic mass at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Mays Landing. Donations in Chris' name to benefit local school children can be made to the John C. Allen Charitable Trust, 2106 New Road, Suite A3, Linwood, NJ 08221, where Chris served as a member of the board. Arrangements by and condolences at www.adams-perfect.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Ford
Sponsored by Adams-Perfect Funeral Homes, Inc. - Northfield.
Lenny Paccione
March 11, 2023
To the Ford family,
You may not know who I am-but I am a “Boo boy aka Boo Pergament—Chris was part of that tree. Also, Jackie Salerno may recognize my name-for he was on my b-ball team 1973 Tighe School Margate champs—but my connection to Chris was through Boo—I grew up on the Jerome Avenue courts Margate—Chris while at Villanova would show up and play “ pic-up ball”.. as a result he and a few others bonded over this sport---it lead to working out with Chris during the summer months at times at the Jerome Avenue courts on hot sticky July/August afternoons—on that hot asphalt surface. Me a no body and Chris NBA playerto illustrate a story you may have never known due to the fact the story took place in Qunicy, ILL and Kansas City, MO—I too attended Holy Spirit High School-then to Qunicy College Quincy, ILL---well after our summer workouts—I explained to Chris I would like to see him play-I knew I was not in the Philly area during the season cause I was away at school in the mid-west!—So here was our arrangement---Kansas City was approximately 200 miles west of Qunicy, IL—I said Chris I’ll come see you play in KC—he said just call the Pistons front office and inquire what hotel the team would be staying at—Note—back in 1972-73-74 time period no such security protocols were in place -like today—so one cold March winter night I call the Pistons front office—they provided the name of the hotel—I call the hotel and leave a message for Chris—he ends up leaving 4 tickets for me at the “will call window” in KC—I grab my college buddy who had a 1972 Monte Carlo and 2 others drive 4 hours due west to KC—sure enough there were the tics—after the game I managed to speak with Chris—what does he say—Lenny-the team is not flying out tonight—you want to grab a bite to eat with me—it’s lonely on these road trips---I said Chris I have 3 other college friend bums with me!-he said bring them--- he gets in our car and we go to a restaurant—while there who walks in and sits with us—Dave Bing and Bob Lanier---here me and my buddies with $ 5 bucks between the 4 of us –eating—talking with Chris and his teammates---another time I drove to KC-however was not able to connect with Chris for tics----few minutes left in game I make my way down to about 10 rows behind the Pistons bench—started calling Chris- Chris Ford--- he did not turn around—probably thought just another fan to heckle him! I finally yelled out “Chris—Jerome Avenue COURTS-Margate Nj hot summer August days”—he turns and lights up!—he pointed where to meet him after the game—unfortunately the team was flying out right after the game.i would see Chris on the Margate beach over the years and we would talk about the past etc—one time I had the opportunity to introduce him to 2 of my son’s college swim teammates while on the beach—My son -his buddies we are sitting on the beach—Chris was walking by and one of the swimmers was from Boston—I say guys you want to meet the former coach/NBA champion of the Boston Celtics—well they dropped their beverages—we walk down to the waters edge and Chris talked to them as if Chris was on the college swim team!!
Just wanted to share these stories with you—may you hear an abundance of stories perhaps you never knew—about Chris—for he made a difference and proved—"never forget your roots “..
Lenny Paccione
John Paccione
February 12, 2023
Jerome Avenue Courts.
RIP #42.
Mike Connelly
February 2, 2023
My deepest condolences to the Ford family. Chris was a Villanova legend, who was adored by the fans. I had the pleasure of practicing basketball with him in college and getting to know him. He was a genuine person, who was personable and gracious to others. His legacy will live on.
John and Trish Patti
January 29, 2023
We are shocked and saddened to hear of Chris's passing. We have many memories of our times in Lynnfield, Vermont and Margate and think of you often, and always with a smile. We wish, as they say, that with time, his memory will bring a smile to your face, instead of a tear to your eye. With profound sympathy, the Pattis all, John, Trish, Shannon and Jay.
Michael Mooney
January 25, 2023
Rest easy my friend
Frank Rich
January 23, 2023
The BEST !!
Fran and Kevin Hurton
January 23, 2023
Kathy, Christopher, Katie, Anthony and Michael. Our hearts are broken at the sudden loss of your Chris. May all the happy memories keep you comforted and smiling.
He treasured family, work and friendships. We were blessed to have been neighbors for many years. We all became family and not
just friends. We all have so many unforgettable memories. Rest in Peace and God bless you Chris. My Mom has Italian cookies waiting.
All our love and prayers, Fran and Kevin Hurton and Family
Stephen Thomas Collins
January 23, 2023
I was in awe of Chris's basketball talents but as we both grew older I was more inspired by his qualities as a caring parent and truly genuine human being . Chris " May you rest in Peace in G- ds Sheltering Arms ". May Kathy and the entire family find strength and peace knowing Chris will surely intervene with his Savior on their behalf. Sincerely Steve Collins
The Librizzi Family
January 23, 2023
St. Mike's was always known as a good basketball school. An Chris was the best of the best. While growing up we all looked up to him. He went on to do what the rest of us could only hope & dream about. In spite of all that he never forgot where he came from. May there be much peace in knowing he touched so many lives in such a positive way.
FrancesDeserino
January 23, 2023
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Michael G Thomas
January 23, 2023
What a legend and a true gentleman in all respects!
Chris never forgot his true roots and was a remarkable family mam, a great grandfather, father and friend! the world was a better place with Chris in it and now heaven has gained another anjel! RIP and God Bless Chris Ford and may God Bless he and his family for a life well lived!
michael callahan
January 22, 2023
my mom would take us to the palestra for all the big 5 games 69-72,it was awsome watching chris and that great team,we are all very very sad about chris's passing,we loved him so much.sincerely. michael callahan and family
Mark McDermott
January 21, 2023
Chris was a player on the Celtics when I (as a teenage photographer) first came across his path. Those times around the fellas (practice or games) were the best of times. R.I.P.
Steven Miller
January 21, 2023
To the Ford and Salerno families, Evangeline and I would like to extend our condolences to all of you. I played against Chris in high school (MRHS `67) and met up with him again a couple of times when the Celtics played the Clippers, here in San Diego. My most memorable time was when Chris single handedly trounced Mainland in `67! I, too, remember Kathy as a cheer leader and competed against Joe as a pitcher. May all the fond memories of Chris, help in the healing of this tremendous loss. Steve and Evangeline Miller, La Mesa, CA.
Kathy Schraeder O´Brien
January 21, 2023
I truly was blessed to have recently rekindled my friendship with Chris. Having gone to Holy Spirit High School the same time and watching him play basketball, I envisioned Chris would go far. Chris touched the lives of so many with such a positive impact. He truly was a gentleman and a wonderful role model. Chris has definitely earned his wings in Heaven.
May all the family memories comfort Kathy and her family.
Bill Mingey
January 21, 2023
It was pleasure going through the Villanova experience with Chris. He was a fierce competitor and developed into an even better person. My sincere condolences to the Ford family.
My encounters with Chris were fewer and fewer over the years. Whenever our paths did cross, he always remained the same, so happy and full of life. Chris held true to being interested in your story rather than his own amazing life story.
Rest in Peace!!
Bill Mingey
Sue Guenther Weiler
January 21, 2023
Sending prayers for comfort and peace to Kathy and all family.
Steven Miller
January 21, 2023
The Ford and Salerno families, Evangeline and I would like to extend our condolences. Played against Chris in high school (MRHS `67). Remembered Kathy as a cheerleader and also played against her brother, Joe in baseball, in Margate. Talked to Chris a couple of times when the Celtics played here in San Diego against the Clippers. Most memorable time was playing against Chris in `67, when he single handedly tore us (Mainland) up. May the fond memories of Chris help in the healing of this great loss. Steve and Evangeline Miller, La Mesa, CA
J. Brian Cudlipp
January 21, 2023
RIP, Chris. You gave me and my fellow Villanovans many great memories. I was in Houston for the 1971 finals, and saw you and your teammates give mighty UCLA all they could handle. Thanks, Chris, you will never be forgotten! God bless you!
George Landis
January 21, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Steve Wilson
January 21, 2023
Chris was a school rival, but a good guy, to be around. White House Sub Shop, was a place, to run into him, over the years. Condolences, to the family.
Gus Sarkos
January 20, 2023
Deeply saddened by the passing of Chris, a great human being. The entire Ducktown nation is in mourning. The obituary perfectly stated he made you feel special because of his sincerity and caring nature. I remember him always selecting me during pick-up games in the 70´s, allowing an old timer to have some playing time. He never forgot his Ducktown roots and joked being a snowbird with Margate summers and Egg Harbor Township winters to be with family and friends. My condolences to his family. May they have some solace in this very difficult time knowing so many loved and respected him. Rest in everlasting peace my friend Chris.
Gus (The Greek) Sarkos
Gus Sarkos
January 20, 2023
Saddened by the passing of a great human being. The entire Ducktown nation is in mourning. The obituary was perfect in describing Chris as making people feel special because of his sincere and caring nature. One if my everlasting memories is Chris choosing me during pick-up games in the 70´s, giving an old timer some playing time. My deepest condolences to his family. May they gain some comfort in knowing that so many loved him and admired his remarkable accomplishments. May he rest in everlasting peace.
Gus "Greek" Sarkos
Maria
January 20, 2023
It was wonderful to grow up with Chris. He was 100 percent caring and talented. I am sorry for you, the family, and am expressing sympathy. I will pray for you and Chris.
Maria Patroni Killam
Tish Keating Hoffman
January 20, 2023
Kathy, remembering our 25 th high school reunion in which we shared the evening. Chris was so excited to be with his beloved wife. Such a family man.! Grateful you transferred from HSHS, so we could share time at ACHS. Appreciate our time together. Sending Love and Prayers to you and your family. Great Love, Great Sorrow. Peace, Tish and Steve Hoffman
Maryann and John McClellan
January 20, 2023
Kathy and Family, it was always a pleasure to see you Chris at the grandkids performances and also attending HS with you both at HSHS....class of 69.
Lawrence Paolucci
January 20, 2023
Dear Kathy and entire Ford family:
Please accept my most sincere condolences over the death of Chris from the entire Paolucci family.
Long before Chris was an NBA champion and coach with the Celtics he was a great player with the Pistons of my youth. He was a dear friend of my dad Dr Ben Paolucci the Pistons team physician. He also never let my dad forget my mom was also a NJ native. As good a player and coach as he was he was an even better human being! I will never forget that he always went out of his way to say hi to my mom dad and family whenever he was back in Detroit. He truly cared and was such a genuine guy! One of my idols growing up. Lawrence
Matt Adamo
January 20, 2023
I am so sorry to the entire Ford family your loss. He was a great man and the very definition of class. I was so fortunate to have Mr. Ford as my travel basketball coach during my Lynnfield middle school days. He was so patient and encouraging with us and had a gift of making every kid feel like they were the most important member of the team. We all spent a great deal of our time after school and on the weekends playing basketball with our friend Chris Jr. on the Ford's hoop court in their backyard. The family was so welcoming and hospitable, especially to a group of us awkward, gangly teens. Mr. Ford and family have given me a lifetime of great memories, I am forever appreciative to have had them in my life.
God Bless and RIP Mr. Ford, you were truly one of a kind.
Ray Thompson
January 20, 2023
Thankful for opportunity to teach and coach @ Holy Spirit,HS when Chris n his bride were there. Great kid, coach and father. Always was the same person in HS,College and the Pros. Never forgot his Ducktown. Super special to watch him grow! God Bless You Chris and your family! Coach T
Lindsay Huntoon
January 20, 2023
One of my favorite players and coaches. Rest in Peace.
Michael R Sykes
January 20, 2023
Condolences to the Ford and Salerno families. Michael Sykes
AC Neighborhood Sport Fans and Families
January 20, 2023
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Greg Olson
January 20, 2023
I can remember as if were last night at a HSHS basketball game in Absecon;
`We want a basket´ and Chris would deliver. The genuine article.
Hello to Bill Salerno.
Steve Powers
January 20, 2023
Chris and I shared a mutual respect for Holy Spirit High School Coach Allen "Boo" Pergament and Boo's basketball clinics we attended in Margate in the 1960s. God Bless Chris's Family. Respectfully, Steve Powers
Dino Marrandino
January 20, 2023
Great Friend
Will miss our breakfast get together with the guys that played ball with him
Anthony C Previti
January 20, 2023
Watching Chris play for Holy Spirit was special. They had a great team that he led. So sorry for your loss. He was always personable despite his success. God bless him
Ray Williams
January 20, 2023
Great Guy, a success story on and off the court. He was key person at KofC Free Throw Contest at Assumption school many years ago when he was on the Board of OC Bank.
Ray Williams PGK 6342
Carol and Joe Rott
January 20, 2023
We are saddened to learn of Chris Ford´s passing. He was a wonderful guy and a great ambassador of the sport of basketball and South Jersey! May the Lord give strength and peace to Katie and the rest of the family at this time.
Paul and Mary Maccagnano
January 20, 2023
Very sorry for your loss I remember him well from St Michael s basketball program may he Rest In Peace and our prayers for all the family for strength at this time sincerely Paul and Mary Maccagnano
Kerry Hurton DiPietro
January 20, 2023
Dear Kathy, Chris, Katie, Anthony & MIchael, My heart breaks for all of you. Your Dad set the bar in so many ways, he truly touched everyone in his path. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Stay strong and remember how blessed we all are to have had him in our lives. Fondly, Kerry
Mary Lynn Doernbach
January 20, 2023
My sincere condolences.
Dominick Formica
January 20, 2023
Chris Ford has been my idol for over 50 years. As a young basketball player growing up in Ducktown he was a wonderful role model for a generation of us young boys. We were friends for all over 50 years. One of the greatest ambassadors for Atlantic City ever. I grieve today on my birthday for Chris and his family. RIP
Jack Koussevitzky
January 19, 2023
I remember my friends and I sitting with Chris Ford and Hank Siemiontkowski, the two stars of the Villanova basketball team in Alumni Hall at St. John´s in the early 70´s. They were good guys and Chris was especially friendly. Since then, of course I always kept track of his incredible career and was proud to see what he had accomplished over the many years since. Heartfelt condolences to Chris´ family and loved ones. I´m sad to hear this.
Julie Anne Warrington
January 19, 2023
Condolences to the family.
Rest In Peace
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