Gordon L. “Gordy” Ford, 85, a lifelong Brookston resident, passed away at 3:00 a.m. Monday, January 22, 2024 at St. Anthony Healthcare in Lafayette.

  Gordy was born December 13, 1938 in Brookston, Indiana to the late Ralph and Wilma (Dyer) Ford.  He was a Brookston Bomber, graduating from Brookston High School in 1956.

  Mr. Ford was a proud member of the United States Army National Guard being discharged on September 30, 1963.  

  Gordy worked for Purdue University in the Physical Plant for over 30 years, mostly as a painter and in the sign shop.  Mr. Ford was also a proud member of the Brookston Volunteer Fire Department, following a great family tradition of service.

 Gordy loved spending time on the river hunting and fishing; his church was Sunday’s down at the river.  Gordy was an avid NASCAR fan, especially of Bill Elliott and Mark Martin.  He and Barb enjoyed attending many NASCAR races including those in Michigan, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Las Vegas and the Brickyard in Indianapolis.  Gordy was smart, quiet and kind; he was always wanting to help others.  Spending time with his family was most important to Gordy.

  Surviving with his wife, Barb, is a son, Gordon Douglas “Doug” Ford of Brookston; a daughter, Sheri Smith (Brian) of Lafayette; a sister, Barbara Reed of Monon; his grandchildren, Carly Crain (Jared) of Frankfort, Kevin Smith of Brookston, Alex Ford of Remington and Lily Ford of Lafayette.  Gordy loved spending time with his grandchildren and his 7 great-grandchildren.

  Preceding him in death with his parents Ralph & Wilma is a brother, Herb Ford; a granddaughter, Sierra Ford and a great-grandson, Jameson Crain.

  Friends may call from 12 p.m. (noon) until the time of funeral service at 2 p.m. Friday, January 26, 2024 at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home of Brookston; Rev. Dr. Lelan D. McReynolds to officiate.  Interment to follow in the Brookston Cemetery.

  Memorials may be made in Gordy’s name to the American Heart Association.

  Share memories and online condolences at www.clapperfuneralservices.com