Frederick Clyde Ford, of Mahomet, passed away at 1:05 a.m., Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Carle Foundation Hospital. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 3rd at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory. Funeral services at will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Richard McGuire officiating. Burial will be held at Mount Olive Cemetery in Mayview.

Fred was born December 30, 1934 in Urbana to parents Frederick C. and Goldia (Leonard) Ford. He was preceded in death by his parents and two step-sisters, Daisy Clark and Wanda Moore. He married MaryAnn McGuire March 10, 1966 in Champaign, Illinois; she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Joyce Humes (Darrin), of Ivesdale, Vickey Blakey (Ron), of Mahomet, and three grandsons, Aiden Humes, and Matthew and Mark Blakey, and one granddaughter Mikel Berstein (Stephen). A sister, Laura Evans (Marion), of Philo, and six great-grandchildren also survive.

Fred held a variety of positions at the University of Illinois from 8/1/61 until 12/29/95 and ended his career as an Instrument Technician II at Abbott Power Plant before he retired. He was a long term member and once served as Union Steward for the Operating Engineers Union. For many years Fred operated his own business to service and supply vacuum tube replacements before the advent of micro circuitry. Fred loved the outdoors. He made many memories with his daughters on camping and fishing trips. He was a fan of classic country music, and especially liked listening to bluegrass. Fred taught himself to play the organ in adulthood and enjoyed dabbling in music. He was fascinated with antiques and enjoyed collecting stereoscopes, pictographs, harmonicas and other toy musical instruments. Fred also loved to travel with his wife MaryAnn and they enjoyed several trips to Europe and Mexico during their retirement.

Fred was a wonderful family man. He was always available to his children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews when they needed advice or assistance. He will be missed by many, including lifetime best friends Richard and Anita Henry and morning coffee friends at the Philo Rd McDonalds. Fred was instrumental in maintaining the Ford Family reunion as an annual event until his health prohibited him from doing so.

Memorial contributions may be made to an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.