Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Nathaniel Ford Obituary
Nathaniel "Peanut" FORD A Fallen Firefighter Who Will Forever Be Remembered Nathaniel Ford's Formula for happiness was simple. Have someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to. Known as Peanut by fellow bikers he enjoyed cross country treks on his 2003 Firefighter special Harley Davidson. Nathaniel passed July 23, 2005, however the honors and tributes continues to grow. February - March, 2006, Seattle Parks Department Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center honored Ford with in display in the front lobby. February 19, 2006 - March 1, 2006, St. John Baptist Church in Tacoma adorn the lobby and bulletin with a tribute to Ford. June 27 - July 3, 2006, First Annual "Peanut" bike run sponsored by the Swords of Justice and Seattle Magic Wheels motorcycle clubs. September 13 - 16, 2006, the Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial will be held in Colorado Springs at the Shadow of Pikes Peak where Ford will have his name engraved on the granite wall of honor along with fellow fallen fighters. A 25 year veteran of the Seattle Fire Department, Nathaniel Ford exemplified the term professional firefighter. He was respected by his peers for his skill and judgment. Fellow fire fighters remember his eagerness, perseverance and good- natured viewpoint. Nothing could dampen his spirits and slow him; always the first to help and the last to leave, Nathaniel Ford served his term as a Professional Fighter with honor. He will be missed and his legacy lives on. Wife, Gwen Ford, Children, Nicholas & Preston Ford, Loura Baylor.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nathaniel Ford
Sponsored by the family of Nathaniel Ford, eternally remembered.
PeterGrantJr
July 21, 2023
You are truly missed. All the Blessings to your wife and children. My Cousins I love y'all.
Kirby Leufroy
June 18, 2023
Mr. Nathaniel, my father Kirby Leufroy was a Seattle Police Sergeant who spoke highly of you. My name is Kirby Leufroy III. Though I never met you I did get the honor of meeting your son Preston, who is my brother in the Houston Fire Department. Mr. Nathaniel I know you are proud of your son who is extremely compassionate and honors your legacy by showing the upmost respect for the citizens of Houston. Mr. Nathaniel I want you to know that I worked a cardiac arrest scene with Preston. Preston was diligent and never shied away from trying to help to resuscitate the patient. You and Mrs. Gwen raised a wonderful young man and the citizens of Houston are blessed to have Preston respond to their homes. Rest in Peace Mr. Nathaniel.
Kirby Leufroy III
Shirley Young
March 6, 2023
Continue to Rest in Paradise. Gone but NEVER FORGOTTEN.
Breann C.
March 4, 2023
Happy heavenly birthday to Mr. Nathaniel.
Shirley Young
July 21, 2022
Gone but, NEVER forgotten... a part of us went with you on that Saturday morning of July 23,2005 when God called you home. Continue to Rest in Paradise my dear cousin/brother.
Curtis Gayden
July 18, 2021
God bless his spirit. RIP
Kermit (Buddy) Stricklin
July 15, 2021
We all miss you, Peanut: My Club brother, not a year goes by every July 23, I reflect back to that day! Your calling to heaven on my Birthday. Magic Wheel forever.. love ya man.
Nathaniel Kelley
July 12, 2021
Nathaniel Ford
was assigned to E-34 B4 where I had the honor of helping him through his probation year. He was always 1 foot off floor he kept us all on our toes.
what a guy I will always remember the funny guy that the same name as me.I regret not having any photos of Nate and I Nate the skate was his nick name to share ,but i can see him in my minds eye as if he were still here with us.
Sharon & John
March 9, 2021
He had the greatest smile and he was always authentic. What I truly admired about him was his love of family. There was nothing he wouldn't do for his family! His love was so deep he made sure his beautiful wife and wonderful children lived a comfortable life filled with love and joy. Peanut knew how to enjoy life and he lived it to the fullest. Peanut brought his family and my family together and for this I am eternally grateful. Gone yet never forgotten!
Cynthia Gilbert
March 6, 2021
Nathaniel was family to me. I always remember how loving, funny, caring he was. He had the most beautiful smile he truly cared about others and he always showed it. Love you Peanut
Shirley Young
March 5, 2021
Happy Heavenly 69th Birthday. Forever in our hearts...until we meet again.
Mike Nakamichi
March 4, 2021
I remember Nate as always smiling, happy and a good firefighter. At his last assignment at Engine 9, the station also housed an air supply that responded to all fires. Nate would always volunteer for that assignment. For that, he was known as Air Nate. However, I always referred to him as Nate the Skate. When Nate passed, it was a very sad day for all. He will never be forgotten.
(Nathaniel wearing white shorts)
March 4, 2021
Kermit (Buddy) Stricklin
March 4, 2021
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. We all have good memories and great motorcycle rides with him. I was blessed to know Nathaniel. Miss his smile and friendship!
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Curtis Gayden
March 4, 2021
He was a thoughtful man! He was a gentle and kind man! He was a graceful man! May God bless his spirit! RIP..
Curtis Gayden
March 4, 2021
Nate was a graceful man! He was a thoughtful man! He was a friendly and gentle man, thank God for his spirit. RIP..
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Nicholas andPreston, sons of Nathaniel sitting on the Eliminator motorcycle.
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Nathaniel with politician / Andrew Young,American politician, civil rights leader, and clergyman who served in theU.S. House of Representatives (1973–77)
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Nathaniel with Civil RightsLeader Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks, lifelong civil rightsactivist, most notably known for serving as leader of the National Associationfor the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Nathaniel withsister’s Junita Owens (RIP) and Diana Owens
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
6700-02
Nathaniel “Cool UnderFire”
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
“BigRed” his Chevy truck 4 x 4, extended cab.
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Formal night on afamily cruise. Top right Redell Collins,(Nathaniel’s mother), Nathaniel, bottom left Gwen (spouse), bottom right MaryCross (Nathaniel’s mother-in-law)
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Nathaniel with his grandmother Jesse Mae Ferguson
Seattle FireFighters the Rodick’s and Nathaniel
Gwendolyn Ford
March 4, 2021
Karrie Baas
July 21, 2020
Wishing you peace as you remember him this year. Big hugs Gwen.
Nathaniel with afew Seattle Black Fire Fighters. Top lightJerry Travis, young, now Retired Chief Gregory Dean, lower left Roberto Jourdan…Nathanielbottom front.
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
R.I.P Seattle Fire Fighters Ray Ford & Nate Ford
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Seattle Magic Wheels MC remembers "Peanut" with motorcycle vest patch
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Peanut 's 2003 Harley "Fire Hog"
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Fire Fighter Ford
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Nathaniel severed on the Navy USS Enterprise 7/20/71 - 8/17/73 <br />Thank you for serving your country at sea! <br />It was here where he earned the nickname "Peanut"
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Young Nathaniel Ford
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Station 9
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Lawn mowing at the "Country House"
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Navy USS Enterprise 7/20/71 - 8/17/73 <br />Thank you for serving your country at sea!
Preston Ford
July 29, 2019
Camping out in Pasco, WA
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
Gwen & Peanut on "Fire Hog" in Pasco, WA
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
Peanut's 2003 Harley "Fire Hog"
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
Peanut & Seattle Magic Wheels
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
The awesome four some Seattle Magic Wheels club brothers
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
Peanut & his sis D
Nicholas Ford
July 29, 2019
Gwendolyn Ford
July 25, 2019
Click here to view Preston Ford’s Farewell Party 2017 and
Click here to view Preston Ford’s Farewell Party Photos
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Peanut!
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
NATHANIEL FORD EXEMPLIFIED COURAGE, HONOR, SERVICE & DEDICATION
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Seattle Fire Dept <br />Local 27<br />Jan 1980 - July 2005
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
In loving memory of my wonderful husband. We will love you and miss you always.
Nathaniel Ford exemplified Courage, Honor, Service & Dedication
IAFF Fallen Fire Memorial Colorado Springs
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Father and son fire helmets N. Ford & P. Ford 2nd Gen
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
IAFF Fallen Fire Memorial Colorado Springs granite wall
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Gwendolyn Ford
July 23, 2019
Shirley Young
July 21, 2019
It's been 14 years since you gained your wings. We mis you my dear cousin. Continue to rest in paradise. ♥
Ford, Collins, Ferguson Families
July 22, 2011
Six years ago today was the last day of your life. When you completed your shift at the Fire Station it was the last shift you worked and the last time you saw your fellow fire fighters. The drive from the fire station through the streets of Seattle was the last time you drove that route.
As you completed your daily task little did we know you were ending your chapter of life.
As you drove home and greated your family; it was the last time you entered your home and spent time with your wife and son.
A few hours after midnight on Saturday, July 23, 2005 God called you home.
Six years later, we still gets teary eyes and think of you often.
Rest in Peace.
The Ford, Ferguson, Collins & Young Families
March 4, 2011
Happy 59th Birthday Nathaniel. We loved you but God LOVED you best. Gone but NEVER forgotten.
Shirley Young
July 23, 2010
Five years ago today you bid us FAREWELL. Today, we reflect on a life well lived but GONE TOO SOON. In life we loved you, in death we love you more.
Shirley Young
March 4, 2010
Today, we pause and give thanks, for a life well lived... We think of you today because it would have been your 58th birthday. Instead, we reflect back on our youth growing up together. Your protection and guidance thoughout our lives together. Growing up as siblings and not cousins. Guiding me with driving tip.
It's been almost five years since you departed us and we miss you as if it was yesterday. So today, we say HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NATHANIEL FORD we love you and we misses you so much but GOD loved you best.
Ferguson Family
February 17, 2010
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 1998-2010
Jessie Ferguson
August 15, 2009
To Those Whom I Love and Those Who Love Me
When I am gone, release me, let me go
I have so many things to see and do
You must not tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that I have had so many years
I gave you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave me in happiness
I think you for the love each have shown
But now it is time I traveled on alone
So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It is only for a while that we must part
So bless the memoriss in your heart
I will not be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can not see or touch me, I will be near
And if you listen with your heart, you will hear
All of my love around you soft and clear
Then, when you must come this way alone
I will greet you with a smile and a
"Welcome Home"
Grant Family
August 15, 2009
I turn my head and look towards death now.
Feeling my way through the tunnel with the space of
emptiness and quiet.
The shimmering silence that awaits me.
This is my direction now; inward to the green pastures...
The cares of the world concern me no longer.
I have completed this life. My work is done, my
children grown.
My husband is well on his hero's journey.
I have loved much and well...
Those I leave behind, I love.
I hope I will remain in their hearts as they will
in mine...
Thank you for taking such good care of me...
And all of you who have been my friends, thank you
for teaching me about love.
Karen Vervaet from "Karen's Journal, 3 April 1993
Redell Collins
August 15, 2009
Death is Nothing
Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other
That we still are.
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes
We enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me,
Let my name be ever the household word that
It always was.
Let it be spoken without effort,
Without the trace of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolutely unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am
Out of sight? I am but waiting for you
For an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner .
All is well.
Ford Family
August 15, 2009
And if I go,
while you're still here...
Know that I live on,
vibrating to a different measure
--behind a thin veil you cannot see through.
You will not see me,
so you must have faith.
I wait for the time when we can soar together again,
--both aware of each other.
Until then, live your life to its fullest.
And when you need me,
Just whisper my name in your heart,
...I will be there.
Young Family
August 15, 2009
No farewell words were spoken,
no time to say goodbye, you were
gone before we knew it, and only
God knows why.
Ferguson Family
August 15, 2009
I thought of you with love today but that is nothing new
I thought about you yesterday and days before that too,
I think of you in silence I often speak your name
All I have are memories and your picture in a frame
Your memory is my keepsake with which I’ll never part
God has you in His keeping I have you in my heart.
March 5, 2009
HAPPY 57th BIRTHDAY
Shirley
January 25, 2009
It's a cold, cloudy day...as I look at your picture we misses you more and more each day. We love Yah!!!
Ford, Ferguson Families
December 25, 2008
I see the countless Christmas
trees around the world below;
with tiny lights like heaven's
stars reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular
please wipe away that tear; for
I am spending Christmas with
Jesus Christ this year. I hear
the many Christmas songs that
people hold so dear; but the
sounds of music can't compare
with the Christmas Choir up here.
For I have no words to tell you
the joy their voices bring; it is
beyond description to hear the
Angels sing. I know how
much you miss me but
please remember dears,
that I am spending
Christmas with
Jesus Christ this year.
I can't tell youof the
splendor of the peace
inside this place; can
you just imagine Christmas
with Our Savior, face
to face? I will ask him
to light your spirits as
I tell Him of your love;
so pray for one another
as you lift your eyes above.
Please let your hearts be
joyful and let your spirits sing;
For I am spending Christmas
in Heaven and walking with
the King!
Audrey Credle
September 16, 2008
Unfortunately, I did not have the pleasure of meeting Nathaniel in person, but what I have read and heard about him expressed by friends, and loved ones, shows me the outstanding man he was. I am sure he lives in many hearts of those who knew and loved him. Therefore he lives on in this world he left behind. I salute you Nathaniel for your service to the people both professionaly and personally.
Peace be with you.
Jessie Mae Ferguson
September 4, 2008
Remember
Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.
By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation
Redell Collins
September 4, 2008
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 1998-2008
Evangelist Emily Grant
July 23, 2008
Nae, it is another year but it does not ease the pain of missing you. We yet talk about the jokes, laugher, the sound of your voice, but most of all we miss seeing the door opening and seeing YOU come thru the door. But we keep the faith and hope because one day we will meet again. Where we will be together forever and ever. I know that you are looking down as we look up to heaven as you sit with our Heavenly Father. God is keeping us one day at a time, and we living each day to with you and Jesus.
Leroy & Rebecca Young
July 23, 2008
Beyond The Grave
How do we convey
Just how we feel
When we lose someone we love?
How do we explain
The deep, lonely pain
The emptiness left in us?
No words can express
The hurt and anguish
Nor touch on how we feel
God shares our tears
And gives us His love
And He, in time, will heal
The hopes and the dreams
We had just remains
Like an unfinished book of their life
As an incomplete chapter
Remains unfinished
With nothing more to write
But we can know God’s comfort
And know there is hope
With a new chapter to begin
We can hold on to God
For He loves us so much
And fills the void within
As we close one chapter
Another can begin
Though the one we love has gone
Through Christ’s strength in us
And hope in our hearts
We find courage to carry on
Jessie Mae Ferguson
July 23, 2008
The Balm Of God's Love
When we lose someone we love
The loss seems too great to bear
God sends us friends to comfort us
To show that He deeply cares
But in the dark hours of the night
When there’s nobody else around
When we feel the saddest and loneliest
It’s there God’s love can be found
It’s like a soothing, healing balm
To soothe our broken hearts
The healing oil poured over us
That flows into every part
We can rest secure in God’s love
And know He’s by our side
He holds us when we feel as though
A part of us has died
We can know that God will listen
When we just want to talk
And when we feel we need to cry
We can share it with the Lord
For He is always waiting there
Ready with arms open wide
As we pour out the hurt within
He pours His love inside
Our Father above loves us so much
And will never leave us alone
He will not forsake us in our need
To face this on our own
He comforts us and strengthens us
And rubs us with His balm
And as the dawn breaks through the night
We’ll awake in His loving arms.
Shirley Young
July 23, 2008
Today, we reflect back on the third year of your passing. I'll never forget the telephone call from Seattle at 6:50 AM Gwen, said you were asleep and wouldn't wake up. Now we must continue to press our way through, it's not easy... our hearts are heavy. In life we loved your dearly in passing we love more for part of us went with you on Saturday, July 23, 2005 when God called you home.
In Memory Of You
We want to always remember
The beautiful life you lived
And keep alive the memories we have
Through remembering what you did
For you’re so special to all of us
A wonderful person indeed
Your love, laughter and warm smile
Reflected a heart that believed
Just in the everyday things we do
We remember your faith and love
In the words you spoke to help us through
Is a continued reminder for us
Although we miss you so very much
We know we’ll see you once more
For this is the hope we have in God
Being re-united in the Lord
And as we gather we’ll continue to share
Special times we went through
For these are memories that warm our hearts
As we honour the memory of you
Shirley Young
July 7, 2008
Exhibit at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center honors
Nathaniel Ford, 25 year veteran of Seattle Fire Department
Seattle Parks and Recreation's Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center pays tribute to one of the longest term African American Firefighters in The Seattle Fire Department with a display in its front lobby through the beginning of March 2006. On Friday, July 23, 2005, Nathaniel Ford, who was a 25 year veteran, died at the age of 53. The articles on display in our lobby, and posted on this web page, are a glimpse into the life of a man who was much loved by an entire community. Nathaniel Ford's dress uniform is displayed in our lobby along with photos and other items.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit LHPAC and view this moving display which was graciously provided by Gwendolyn Ford, Nathaniel Ford's wife. A journal will be available for visitors to share memories and thoughts with Nathaniel Ford's family. In addition, please take time to view the photos and articles posted on this web page.
LHPAC would like to extend its gratitude to Gwendolyn Ford for the honor of displaying such an important piece of Seattle's history.
Shirely Young
July 6, 2008
Nathaniel Ford Jr., 1952-2005: Firefighter charmed all
He was the firefighter kids saw waving from the passing trucks, his wit could charm old ladies or make neighborhood toughs laugh, and he had a profound faith in God.
Today, friends from around the country and firefighters from across the city will gather to remember Nathaniel Ford Jr., a 25-year veteran of the Seattle Fire Department who died last Saturday of a heart attack. He was 53.
"He was just a good man, a good friend," said James Ealy, who will be a pallbearer at Ford's funeral service today.
Born in Philadelphia, Ford moved to South Carolina as a youngster, where he was raised by his grandmother, Jesse Mae Ferguson.
When Ford took one of his motorcycle tours on his Harley-Davidson, he made a point of stopping to visit Ferguson at her South Carolina home.
He served in the Navy from 1971 until 1973, and moved to Seattle upon his discharge. For a time, he worked as a bus driver for Metro but in 1980 joined the Seattle Fire Department.
Deputy Chief Jim Fosse went through drill school with Ford and remembers him as the recruit who always had something to say.
"He would just talk about everything," Fosse recalled.
That ability became a gift as a firefighter, he noted.
The two were assigned to the busy Station 25 on Capitol Hill. One of their first aid calls was for a young woman with an ectopic pregnancy, in which a fertilized egg is implanted outside the uterus.
The teenager's mother became extremely upset, Fosse recalled.
"Nate just jumped right in there and calmed that lady down," he said. "He was very good at that."
In 1989, Ford was assigned to Station 9 in Fremont.
Capt. Ken Bus said 10 years ago when he joined the station, he took to the gregarious Ford almost immediately.
"He was my friend and brother," said Bus, who also will serve as a pallbearer today.
Firefighter Dan Kieta joined the department eight years ago and worked with Ford most of that time.
Ford mentored him on firefighting techniques, and Kieta helped him work the computer.
And Ford was a favorite station house cook.
"His fried chicken was incredible," Kieta recalled.
Bus said Ford's demeanor kept spirits high among his crew.
"I never heard him say a negative thing about anybody or anything," he said.
For years, Ford belonged to the Seattle chapter of the Magic Wheels Motorcycle Club, where most knew him as "Peanut," a childhood nickname that followed him into adulthood.
That's where Ealy met Ford, who later became godfather to Ealy's grandchildren.
Almost annually, Ford would ride his Harley on a cross-country trek.
Once, Ealy recalled, before he bought his 2003 Fireman's Special, Ford was riding an older motorcycle that would break down in the rain. On a highway in Utah, the bike died, and Ford fell behind the rest of the group.
But when another rider stopped to ask how he was doing, Ealy said, Ford simply replied, "Don't worry about me. I got God here with me."
"He hardly ever ate a meal without blessing his food," Ealy said.
Ford had survived a recent bout with cancer and was found to be free of the disease on his last two checkups.
During treatment, which sometimes left him drained for days, he never lost his good humor.
"He took it in stride," Ealy said. "He'd always bounce back."
The station house where Ford spent the last 16 years is a little quiet now, Bus said. A seat where Ford would watch Westerns while he ate his dinner has been left untouched.
His entire crew and many firefighters plan to attend today's services. The procession is expected to include motorcycles, Engine 9 and Air 9, the truck that delivered full air tanks to the other station houses.
Ford was fond of delivering the air because it gave him a chance to meet other firefighters.
"He just loved to see everybody," Bus said. "Just about everybody knew him."
Ford is survived by his wife, Gwen; sons, Preston and Nicholas; daughter, Loura Baylor; his parents; and siblings.
Services are scheduled for 1 p.m. today at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 2801 S. Jackson St. in Seattle followed by a procession to the Royal Esquire Club, 5015 Rainier Ave. S.
July 4, 2008
Remember Me
Author Unknown
Remember me in quiet days
While raindrops whisper on your pane.
But in your memories have no grief,
Let just the joy we knew remain.
Remember me when evening stars
Look down on you with steadfast eyes.
Remember if once you wake
To catch a glimpse of red sunrise.
And when your thoughts do turn to me,
Know that I would not have you cry.
But live for me and laugh for me,
When you are happy, so am I.
Remember an old joke we shared;
Remember me when spring walks by.
Think once of me when you are glad
And while you live, I shall not die.
The Ferguson Family
July 4, 2008
Crossing the Bar
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have cross the bar.
By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation
Shirley
July 4, 2008
Thinking about you this July 4th... We honor your legacy for this is the month of your Home Going. This time three years ago your days on earth were getting shorter. Our last telephone call in July...We misses you so much but, your memories has comfort us during this difficult three years. We love you...
Emily Ferguson Grant
July 4, 2008
YES Nae time goes on, but you are always in my heart and on my mind. All the things we did as a child, not aunt and nephew but brother and sister. I could hit you but no one else because I was older, as we got older and you went away every time you call your famous line " No one better hurt a strand on that old grey hair lady." But Nae no one never thought that you would leave so soon. God called you home just when the beautiful rose got full bloom.Now we sit and remember all the things you did that made us smile and the 92 year old lady still calls you her boy child. But one day we will all meet again and laugh together over all the funny things we did Nae as a child.
Jessie Mae Ferguson
March 10, 2008
In Loving Memory Of Nathaniel Ford Happy Birthday! We thought of you today, but that was nothing new. We thought of you yesterday and everyday before that too. We think of you in silence and each day we speak your name. All we have is memories and your picture in a frame. In life, we loved you dearly, in death, we love you still. In our hearts you hold a place no one ever will. It broke our hearts to lose you. You didn't go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home.
Showing 1 - 100 of 171 results
Make a Donation
in Nathaniel Ford's name
Memorial Events
for Nathaniel Ford
How to support Nathaniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Nathaniel Ford's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
