In Celebration of
Earl Franklyn Ford
December 2, 1931 - December 3, 2025
Heaven Needed a Piano Player
Earl Franklyn Ford passed away into the waiting arms of his wife, Agnes, and daughter, Regan, the day after his 94th birthday on December 3, 2025. Born in Kitchener to Genevieve and Edward, Earl was the brother of Darlene (predeceased) and the proud father of Erin (Jerry), Regan (predeceased), and Kevin (Judith). He was a playful and devoted grandfather to six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who cherished every moment spent with their beloved Bapa.
Earl was unmistakable: always with a cigar in hand, a quick one-liner at the ready, and a sense of humour that could make anyone blush. Although he was a sharp card player, he amazed everyone most with his extraordinary piano talent, entertaining friends and family with unbelievable skillful performances and witty song parodies. Often, Earl played into the wee hours of the morning with Agnes by his side, belting out the tunes. Wherever he went, Earl and his piano were the life of the party.
An outstanding athlete, Earl excelled in many sports, particularly football. He played at the University of Toronto, was drafted professionally into the CFL, and played semi-professional football with the Balmy Beach and Kitchener Dutchmen. His proudest athletic achievement was as a member of the 1954 University of Toronto Championship football team, which was later inducted into the University of Toronto Sports Hall of Fame in 2015—a fitting recognition of a remarkable team and an extraordinary player.
After graduating from U of T with degrees in Engineering and Business, Earl and his young bride, Agnes, moved to Edmonton, Alberta, to work for Imperial Oil. Upon returning to Ontario, he enjoyed a 40+ year career in the Concrete Pipe, Sand and Gravel, Ready Mix Concrete and Block Industries, conducting himself with honesty and integrity in both business and life.
Affectionately known as “Earl the Pearl,” he embodied the pure essence of a true top class gentleman. He treated everyone- especially the vulnerable- with kindness, empathy and respect. In the face of adversity, he showed remarkable resilience and quiet courage, and he was a man who always kept his promises. His door was open to all, and no one ever left without a full belly and a warm feeling of friendship. Earl lived an exceptional life, leaving everyone who knew him better for having shared in it.
Earl received extraordinary care at Chartwell Residence. We extend heartfelt thanks to PSWs Roanne, Precious, Charita, Rose, and Ellen, as well as skilled nurses Grace and Ursula, for their dedicated service and compassionate love. We also deeply appreciate the guidance provided by Dorothy Persaud.
In accordance with Earl’s wishes, a private burial will take place. In his honour, please reach out to a loved one and give them a "hug and a squeeze", play your favourite song, and revisit fond memories of Earl Franklyn Ford.
Earl Franklyn Ford passed away into the waiting arms of his wife, Agnes, and daughter, Regan, the day after his 94th birthday on December 3, 2025. Born in Kitchener to Genevieve and Edward, Earl was the brother of Darlene (predeceased) and the proud father of Erin (Jerry), Regan (predeceased), and Kevin (Judith). He was a playful and devoted grandfather to six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who cherished every moment spent with their beloved Bapa.
Earl was unmistakable: always with a cigar in hand, a quick one-liner at the ready, and a sense of humour that could make anyone blush. Although he was a sharp card player, he amazed everyone most with his extraordinary piano talent, entertaining friends and family with unbelievable skillful performances and witty song parodies. Often, Earl played into the wee hours of the morning with Agnes by his side, belting out the tunes. Wherever he went, Earl and his piano were the life of the party.
An outstanding athlete, Earl excelled in many sports, particularly football. He played at the University of Toronto, was drafted professionally into the CFL, and played semi-professional football with the Balmy Beach and Kitchener Dutchmen. His proudest athletic achievement was as a member of the 1954 University of Toronto Championship football team, which was later inducted into the University of Toronto Sports Hall of Fame in 2015—a fitting recognition of a remarkable team and an extraordinary player.
After graduating from U of T with degrees in Engineering and Business, Earl and his young bride, Agnes, moved to Edmonton, Alberta, to work for Imperial Oil. Upon returning to Ontario, he enjoyed a 40+ year career in the Concrete Pipe, Sand and Gravel, Ready Mix Concrete and Block Industries, conducting himself with honesty and integrity in both business and life.
Affectionately known as “Earl the Pearl,” he embodied the pure essence of a true top class gentleman. He treated everyone- especially the vulnerable- with kindness, empathy and respect. In the face of adversity, he showed remarkable resilience and quiet courage, and he was a man who always kept his promises. His door was open to all, and no one ever left without a full belly and a warm feeling of friendship. Earl lived an exceptional life, leaving everyone who knew him better for having shared in it.
Earl received extraordinary care at Chartwell Residence. We extend heartfelt thanks to PSWs Roanne, Precious, Charita, Rose, and Ellen, as well as skilled nurses Grace and Ursula, for their dedicated service and compassionate love. We also deeply appreciate the guidance provided by Dorothy Persaud.
In accordance with Earl’s wishes, a private burial will take place. In his honour, please reach out to a loved one and give them a "hug and a squeeze", play your favourite song, and revisit fond memories of Earl Franklyn Ford.