Donald Edward Ford

Donald Ford, 86, of Alexandria, VA died peacefully in his home on June 12,  2017.  Don lived most of his life in the Boston area, most recently 30 years living on Hanover St in the North End, prior to moving to Alexandria. Don graduated from Somerville HS and then served in the army.  He married Margaret a month after discharge and then went on to attend Boston University and Harvard Graduate School.

Don worked as an educator for most of his career.  Early on, he taught science in Topsfield and Lincoln, then worked at the Educational Development Center, and wrote the children’s science study material, “Where was the Moon?” After positions in Whitingham, Vermont, and Brunswick, Maine, he taught at Skidmore College, and then came back to the Boston area to work as an elementary school principal. Later on he was a technical writer for semi-conductor industry magazines.  

Don was active throughout his life and loved to bicycle and cross country ski. He also enjoyed traveling, including many trips to Wells Beach and Portland, ME. Reading, cooking and movies were also favorite pastimes. Don and Margaret were members of Beacon Hill Villages in Boston, and more recently, At Home Alexandria. Don is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Margaret, and two daughters, Jennifer Steele and Elizabeth McElwain, and grandson, Andrew McElwain. 

The family will be contacting friends to share arrangements for memorial celebrations in Alexandria, Boston, and Portland.

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