Celebration of the Life of Fred Ford
Saturday, August 13 at 2:00 pm.
Fred Ford (1949-2022)
It is with great sadness that the Ford family announces the passing of Frederick George Ford. Fred was a father, brother, son, partner, and a friend to many. Fred was born in St. Catharines, Ontario on November 4, 1949. After completing high school Fred spent a year backpacking through Europe staying in hostels, and sleeping on beaches and immersing himself in European culture and cuisine. So began his life of adventure.
In December, 1980, Fred moved his young family to Baker Lake, NU so he could learn more about his Inuit culture and family connections. While in Baker Lake he managed the Iglu Hotel, was the Executive Director of Kivilliq Inuit Association, opened Qamanittuq Fine Arts Gallery, taught in the school and lectured at Arctic College. Fred also spent countless hours on the land fishing, hunting, canoeing, meeting with artists and Elders and learning about his culture. Fred remained in Baker Lake until the fall of 2003 when he moved to Winnipeg to marry Gela whom he had met in Baker Lake. Once in Winnipeg it did not take long for Fred to become involved in the community. He volunteered at his church, All Saints and was Chair of the Board of West Broadway Community Ministry for a number of years. He was also on the Board of Camerata Nova (now Dead of Winter). Fred was a founding board member of the Manitoba Inuit Association (formerly the Manitoba Urban Inuit Association) and held the position of President and Board Chair. Fred spent countless hours at the Winnipeg Art Gallery on their Board of Directors and working towards developing and opening Qaumajuq (Inuit Art Gallery). He was very proud of his culture and heritage and would never pass up an opportunity to speak about it. His goal was to teach others about the history and culture of the Inuit, and he did that well!
Fred leaves behind his son Jeremy and daughter Jessica; grandchildren Misko and Solomon; his partner Gela; brother and best friend David (Cheryl), and sisters Celia (Dennis), Marti and Cindy (Pino) and many nieces and nephews. Fred is predeceased by his parents Henry and Margaret Ford and brother Lyall.
A funeral service will be held at 2 pm, August 13, 2022, at All Saints Church, Broadway & Osborne, in Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to All Saints Church or one of the organizations Fred was involved with.
Rest in peace Fred, you are loved and will be missed dearly.
If you are unable to attend the service in person it will be livestreamed. Click the image below to start the livestream, which will begin at about 1:50pm. Once the service is concluded the recording will remain available for viewing.
