Albert L. Ford, age 88, a long-time resident of Elwood, died unexpectedly Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at his residence in Elwood. He was born May 17, 1924 in Howard County, the son of Merrill L. and Bernice (Pickering) Ford. Albert began his career in automotive service at Lee's Marathon Station in Elwood. He became owner and partnered operator of the Texaco Service Station, and later became sole owner & operator of the Phillip's 66 Station in Elwood. He also retired in 1990 as a driver for the Shepard Tool Company. Albert was a 1942 graduate of Windfall High School. He married Joan Spitzmesser on May 20, 1944. He was formerly a member of the Bethel Baptist Church in Elwood, and was an associate member of the Fraternal Order of Police #82. He and his wife were formerly active members of the 50-Plus Club in Elwood and the McDonald's morning coffee group. Albert was an avid NASCAR, Indy Car, Indianapolis Colts, and Cincinnati Reds fan. He especially loved to mow his property on the tractor and was known to be an enthusiastic storyteller.

His family includes his wife of more than 68 years, Joan (Spitzmesser) Ford of Elwood; 2 daughters, Rebecca J. Ford of Marion and Deena J. Smith of Elwood; brother, William J. Ford of Elwood; 3 grandchildren, Michelle Smith of Muncie, Melanie (husband D.J.) Sanders of Muncie, and Marlena (husband James) Vest of Elwood; 4 great-grandchildren, Samantha Vest, Alexis Sanders, Cameron Vest, and Shelby Sanders; brother-in-law, Noel (wife Marjorie) Spitzmesser of Anderson; 2 sisters-in-law, Joyce (Clifford) Brown of Fortville and Carolyn Shepard of Elwood; and several nieces and nephews.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ernest Ford, 3 sisters-in-law, Betty Spitzmesser, Carmen Bauner, and Betty Ford; and 2 brothers-in-law, Bill Shepard and Bill Bauner.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 22, 2012 at 1:00 PM at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Joe Current, former pastor of Bethel Baptist church, officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Elwood. Visitation will be held from 2 to 6 PM on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Morrisett Center through the funeral home. Online condolences to the family may be made at: www.copherfeslermay.com.