Michael L. Ford

ADRIAN- Michael Lynn Ford, 76, of Adrian, passed into the arms of Jesus Wednesday, December 22, 2022. Born on August 20, 1946, in Decatur, Indiana, Mike was the son of Jerry and Catherine (Martin) Ford. On February 11, 1971, Mike married Linda Jean Cole in Tecumseh, MI with the Rev B.O. Bashore officiating. Mike and Linda shared over 51 years together. Mike is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters, Rebecca (Michael) Albright of Adrian and Robyn Ford of Holt; two grandsons, Christopher Mason and Caleb Albright, with a great-grandson due to arrive any day; and his brother, Tony (Diana) Ford. He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Jim (Ruth) Cole of Adrian, Larry (Joan) Cole, and Jack Cole of Tucson, Arizona, and his nieces and nephews and their children. Also surviving are his son, Michael G. Ford, of Georgia, and his daughter, Michelle (Michael) Lance of Adrian and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Robert and Marjorie Cole, and his sisters, Judy O’Leary and Linda Herriman, and his brother-in-law, Keith Herriman. Mike graduated from Adrian High School with the Class of 1965. He worked at Citizens Gas Fuel Company for 45 years, where he was a crew leader and union leader. He was recognized in The Daily Telegram for his work in helping people winterize their windows and as Citizens Gas’ first ever Employee of the Quarter. He was a member of the AA family with over 40 years of sobriety. He also loved riding his Harley and belonged to the 5th Chapter Motorcycle Club. He took many motorcycle trips with his friends, including trips to Nashville, Akron, and riding the Blue Ridge Skyway. He particularly loved to tell the story about riding up north and going across the Mackinac Bridge on his Harley. He participated in numerous local motorcycle charity events. If there was an event for charity, Mike was there. He was a crew member on the Citizens Gas team for the Junior Achievement Grand Prix held in Adrian for several years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and was always going to their concerts, sporting events, grade school musicals and plays, or just helping out. Halloween was one of his favorite holidays, when he would gleefully dress up (his favorite costume was Jason Voorhees from Friday the 13th) and take his children and grandchildren trick-or-treating with his tractor and wagon. He loved playing volleyball at family get-togethers and was often called upon to be the grill master. He loved animals and had pets throughout his life. He was also proud of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and was the first to volunteer his help to family and friends throughout his life. To Mike, no one was a stranger. Following Mike's wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no public services. Memorial contributions in Mike’s honor may be made to the Lenawee Humane Society or the Lenawee Feral Support. (lenaweeferal@gmail.com). Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home, in Adrian, where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.wagleyfuneralhomes.com.

Michael L. Ford

August 20, 1946 - December 22, 2022