Gerald R Ford

Gerald R. Ford, 38th President of the United States passed away at his home on December 26, 2006 at the age of 93. He was born July 14, 1913 in Omaha, Nebraska and moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan as an infant. Mr. Ford played football for the University of Michigan, then went on to Yale Law School where he graduated in the top third of his class. He left his law practice to serve in the Navy during WWII. His political career began in 1948 when he was elected to the US House, where he served 13 terms and became minority leader in 1965. In 1973, he was appointed to the vice presidency after the resignation of then Vice President Spiro Agnew and went on to become President after Richard Nixon resigned from that office on August 9, 1974. Mr. Ford was acutely aware that he had never been elected to these offices, and asked the American people to, “Confirm me with your prayers.” He saw his greatest accomplishment during his term as President as being one of “healer” for a nation deeply wounded by the events that brought him to the White House. Mr. Ford will be greatly missed by his wife, Betty; children, Michael, Jack, Steven, and Susan; many friends, colleagues, and a grateful nation. It is with deep sadness that we say goodbye to this man who led us with honor, integrity and conviction.