Cancer claims life of Sen. Ford (03/05/08)

INDIANAPOLIS - State Sen. David Ford died today at age 59 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Ford, a Republican from Hartford City, died at his home, Senate officials said. Ford had been absent from the Senate since January, when his family confirmed he was critically ill with cancer.

Senators planned a moment of silence for Ford Wednesday afternoon.

"Words cannot take away the sense of loss his family and friends are feeling at this hour, but it is important that they know he and they are in our hearts and minds," said Senate President Pro Tem David Long, R-Fort Wayne.

Ford was the Blackford County prosecutor before being elected to the Senate in 1994. He represented District 19, which includes all or parts of Adams, Allen, Blackford, Grant and Wells counties in northeastern Indiana.

His State Senate District formerly included a large portion of Jay County.

A graduate of Indiana University, Bloomington, Ford received his master's degree from Ball State University and his doctor of jurisprudence from the Indiana University School of Law.

He was a board member of Dollars for Scholars and Pee Wee Football, both in Blackford County. He also served as a coach for the football organization.

He had previously served with the Hartford City Chamber of Commerce and several other organizations.

Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Joyce (Bonjour) Ford; a daughter, three sons; and two grandchildren.

Services for Ford will be at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Muncie. Details on services are pending.

Memorials may be made to the David C. Ford Scholarship Fund, Blackford High School, 2392 North Ind. 3, Hartford City.

Ford, along with his family, spent a portion of his childhood in Portland.

Family members include brother Kevin, who is an astronaut.[[In-content Ad]]