Patrick R. Ford

Patrick Robert Ford, born Jan. 14, 1936, passed away on Aug. 5, 2024, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer and heart disease.

He joins his beloved wife Luana, daughters Tammy and Kelly, brothers Frank and Mike and grandson Caleb in the afterlife.

Patrick is survived by his partner Patricia Ettl; sons Mark (Judy) and John Ford; daughters Melissa and Kathy (Chester) Ford; brothers Gary and Jeff (Chris) Ford; grandchildren Joshua (Laura), Noah, Justin and Sarah Ford; and great-grandchildren Hunter, Sierra and Maycee.

Born in Michigan and raised in Milwaukee, Patrick was the eldest of five brothers. After his father’s early passing, he embraced the role of family caretaker.

In 1959, he married Luana and moved to Brookfield, Wis., raising six children.

A car salesman for 50 years, he was also a pilot, sailor and craftsman.

A devout Catholic, Patrick was deeply involved in St. Agnes Parish in Butler, Wis., and later St. Joseph’s Parish in Grafton, Wis.

After Luana’s passing in 1995, Patrick married Patricia Ettl in 2010 and they traveled to Ireland together. He cherished sharing stories over a beer with his grandchildren.

Patrick will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral Mass and celebration of life will be held at St. Joseph’s Parish in Grafton, Wis., on Sept. 27, 2024.

Visitation will be at 11 a.m., and Mass will be at noon.

The family thanks everyone for their support and condolences.