Robert (Bob) A. Ford, 70, of Stafford, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2008 at Mary Washington Hospital following a brief illness.

He was the husband of Lois Ford for 52 years.

Bob was born in Sheridan, Wyoming on March 3, 1938, a son to the late William A. and Hilda Ford. He graduated from Sheridan High School in 1955. He studied civil engineering and graduated from the University of Wyoming and began his career with the Wyoming State Highway Department in 1960.

He continued his career as a public servant by joining the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in 1967. In his early career he helped build the Interstate Highway system. Later he directed the International Highway Program and fostered collaboration between the United States and other nations.

He loved the people, cultures and most importantly enjoyed helping developing countries. Much of his travels took him to Africa and Russia and he grew to love both countries and their people.

Bob retired from FHWA after 35 years of service in 2002.

Bob was a devoted family man, avid sports fan, and outdoorsman. He embraced every challenge and opportunity with zest and humor, and lived life to the fullest. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and his loyal dogs Nikki and Amber.

Along with his wife Lois, he is survived by his daughter, Laurie Howard, and her fiancé Tom Park; his son Robert David Ford, and his wife Debra, a brother-in-law Don Schneider, and his wife Linda, and 5 grandchildren: Ashleigh Howard, Emily Howard, Benjamin Howard, Michael Ford, and Lindsay Ford.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 18, 2008 from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, Fredericksburg Chapel. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 A.M. at the Christ Lutheran Church with Pastor Richard M. Carbaugh officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718, 800-ACS-2345, cancer.org or to the Mary Washington Hospice, 5012 Southpoint Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22407, 540-741-1667.

To view a tribute of Bob’s life, please visit MeM.com or mullinsthompson.com

The Sherdan Press - July 16 2008