Michael J. Ford

Michael J. Ford, 82 of Auburn passed away peacefully May 9, 2024, at Auburn Community Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

  He was born in Dayton, OH the son of the late AJ "Joe' and Dorothy (Stevens) Ford and had been an area resident for most of his life. Mike was a longtime communicant of Sacred Heart Church. He retired from Rumetco Sales in Syracuse after more than 35 years of service.  Mike was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge 474 and also a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Mike enjoyed his many sports cars over the years, especially his 1965 Ford Galaxy Convertible and his 1985 Corvette. He also liked following NASCAR and any driver, that was driving a Ford, of course. Mike was an avid New York Yankees and Syracuse University sports fan. Mike cherished his family and enjoyed the many friends that he had, especially his Gaylord Street neighbors. He will be sadly missed.

  He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Linda (Festa) Ford of Auburn, his best friend and son, Michael Ford of Auburn, two grandsons Kaden and Kyan Ford, two very special sisters-in-law, Carole Mills and Diane Chayka as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

 In addition to his parents, Mike was also predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Samuel and Julie Festa and his beloved canine friend, Jeter with whom passed on Mother's Day last year and was so happy and comforted by the compassion that Jerry Pettigrass showed his family during that most difficult time.

  Calling hours are this Tuesday from 4 to 7 pm in the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St. Michael's Mass of Christian burial will be held this Wednesday, May 15th at 11:00 am in Sacred Heart Church. Burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery will follow the mass. 

   In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike's memory to either the SPCA or Majorpalooza.

    The family would like to express their deep gratitude for the excellent care that was shown to MIke during his illness, especially 4 Central and the ICU staff at Auburn Community Hospital, and most of all, his shining angel, his niece Julie Fritz for the extra special care and love that was shown. Words cannot ever thank you enough.

    We know that Mike is smiling down upon us and working hard on a deal with George Steinbrenner to help make, Juan Soto a Yankee for life. 

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