Danny Robert Ford, of Bellefonte, passed away on August 30, 2022, at Centre Care in Bellefonte at the age of 93. Born July 8, 1929, in Torrance, California, to the late Ernest Earl Ford and Hattie Siep Ford, he was of the Protestant faith. Danny was a natural mechanic, and as a young man turned an old 1931 Ford into an impressive race car. He won more races than he lost. He did two stints in the US Navy as an aircraft mechanic. During that time, he met the love of his life, Nancy Ellen Barnhart. They courted for one week and were married on November 30, 1952, in Yuma, Arizona. Their marriage lasted 62 years, until Nancy’s passing in 2015.
Danny and Nancy lived for several years in Long Beach, California, and had one son, Danny R. Ford, II, before moving back east to Nancy's hometown of Bellefonte in 1964. Danny was employed by the Warner Company where he rose to the position of superintendent of manufacturing. He worked for the company for 31 years and retired in 1996. After retirement, Danny took on the job of managing the Bellefonte Bakery for several years. He was a life member of the Elks Club 1094 of Bellefonte, where he had many close friends, and was a member for many years of the American Legion Club 33 of Bellefonte. Dan and Nancy were a dynamic team in life. They helped a multitude of friends in need, and had a deep compassion for animals, caring for elderly dogs, often several at a time. Dan was an excellent cook and gave meals to others until he became ill.
Danny is survived by his son, Danny R. Ford, II (wife, Ruth Ann), several nieces and nephews, and Nancy’s brothers and sisters and their families.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by three sisters.
He will rest in the mausoleum at the Centre County Memorial Park, State College, Pennsylvania.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Danny’s memory to the Elks BPOE, Club #1094, 120 W. High Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823.