Jon Richard Ford and Katherine Lucille “Kathy” Ford, of Shawano, passed away peacefully in their sleep, side by side, on the morning of June 12, 2025, while living out their dream of traveling through Alaska for the summer. They were inseparable in life and left this world together, just weeks shy of their 42nd wedding anniversary on June 25th – a love story that ended the way it was lived: hand in hand.
Jon and Kathy spent most of their lives in Shawano, Wisconsin, and made countless memories at their beloved lake property on Legend Lake, where summers were filled with laughter, boat rides, and bonfires. In later years, they moved to Arizona to be near their children and grandchildren – the greatest joys of their lives.
They lovingly drove each other crazy, but they were truly each other’s everything. They loved to travel, explore the outdoors, camp under the stars, and try their luck at casinos. Most of all, they loved being with family – never missing a game, performance, or moment to simply be present. Their grandchildren were the center of their world, and they would move mountains for them.
Jon and Kathy are survived by their children, Jennifer (Aaron Doster) Livshin and Dillon (Dawn) Ford. Their love and legacies will live on in their four grandchildren, Ethan Livshin, Weston, Case, and Kora Ford. They were preceded in death by their infant daughter, Lori Ann Ford, whose brief life left a lasting imprint on their hearts.
Jon Richard Ford was born November 7, 1961, in Milwaukee, WI, a son to Lois Ford and the late Don Ford. Jon was a proud graduate of Gresham High School and spent his life building – not just homes and structures as a skilled union carpenter, but a life defined by integrity, hard work, and devotion to his family. Whether he was fixing a neighbor’s roof, working on a baseball swing with his grandsons, teaching his kids how to use a power tool, or coaching the Shawano Lightening Hockey Team to a state title, Jon gave 110% in everything he did. He was a mentor to many and a rock to those lucky enough to know him.
Jon had a natural gift with his hands and an even greater one with his heart. He loved hunting in the quiet woods, fishing at dusk, and cranking up classic rock music while working in the garage. He found joy in simple things – like sharing a beer by the fire, cracking jokes, or rough housing with his grandsons who adored him. Loyal, wise, hardworking, and stubborn to his last breath – Jon was deeply respected and deeply loved.
He is survived by his loving mother, Lois Ford; brothers, Mark (Robin) Ford, Bart (Nikki) Ford, and Craig (Nancy) Ford; and his sister, Pam Ford, who was a great friend and confident to the very end. Jon is further survived by many nephews, nieces, extended family, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Don Ford, and nephew, Dean Ford.
Katherine Lucille “Kathy” Ford was born March 23, 1961, in Elmhurst, IL, a daughter to the late William Sr. and Sadie (Norton) Thompson. Kathy graduated from Shawano High School and spent her life in service to others. She worked in housekeeping and hospitality, where her warmth and care touched everyone she encountered. She also volunteered generously at the local school and was the first to raise her hand when someone needed help. She proudly attended everything her children and grandchildren were involved in and was always their biggest cheerleader.
Kathy was the heart of her family – nurturing, strong, and endlessly giving. Her home was always open, her hugs were healing, and her laugh could light up a room. She loved camping trips, cooking for her family, and creating a home full of love and warmth.
Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose love knew no bounds.
She is survived by the best brother and friend she could have asked for, William (Victoria) Thompson. She is further survived by one nephew, extended family, and more friends than we could ever count. She is preceded in death by her loving parents, William and Sadie Thompson.
“Love you to the moon and back… All day long.”
A Memorial Mass for Jon and Kathy will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano. Father Edward Looney will be the Celebrant. Burial will take place at Lake Drive Cemetery, Town of Wescott. Visitation will begin on Thursday evening, July 10, 2025, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Mickelson Funeral Service in Shawano. Visitation will continue at the church on Friday from 10:00 am until the hour of Mass.
Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc. of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.
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