William ‘Bill’ Ford
Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (10:56): I rise with sadness to acknowledge the life of William ‘Bill’ Thomas Ford, president of the Monbulk RSL sub-branch, who passed away suddenly on 7 May 2023. A much-loved grandfather, father to Michael, Steven and Jeff, and devoted husband to Sue, who passed in 2017, Bill was the true embodiment of community spirit, going out of his way to assist others in need. He enlisted in the Australian Army in 1969 and served as a nurse and then assistant medical instructor. Upon his discharge in 1975, Bill worked as a theatre nurse and then in medical sales. He eventually gave up full-time work to care for his terminally ill wife Sue. Upon Sue’s passing, Bill devoted himself to the RSL, ensuring he was always available to help those who needed his support. A true gentleman, Bill’s sharp wit and dry humour made every conversation with him entertaining and interesting. At his memorial service many recounted Bill’s generosity with his time and skills for anyone needing support. From fighting the Ash Wednesday fires to saving his next-door neighbour’s life to comforting the bereaved when they had lost their loved ones, Bill was a pillar of the Monbulk community. During the storms of June 2021, Bill worked tirelessly through the night and days that followed with the Monbulk Emergency Management Group, keeping those without power and damaged homes warm, fed and safe. He was often found volunteering at Monbulk’s Open Door Pantry emergency food relief service, also assisting anyone needing dietary or health advice. Medicine, health and caring were clearly Bill’s life calling. Vale, William ‘Bill’ Ford. Thank you for all you did for your community. You will be missed by so many.