Helen Louise Ford  

August 10, 1932 – October 19, 2024  

  Helen Louise Ford, 92, of Elkhart, passed away at the Valley View Health Center on October 19, 2024, surrounded by her family.  She was born August 10, 1932, in Vienna, Illinois to David and Mildred Sanders.    

  On June 4, 1950, she married William Everett Ford who has preceded her in death.   Surviving are 3 children, daughter Brenda Elliott, sons John Ford and Mark “Stephen” Ford.   9 Grandchildren Jason (Stacey) Ford, Stacy (Greg) Ford Brouwer,  David (Courtney) Hartman, Joshua (Alaina) Hartman, Michael (Heather) Farris, Kevin Farris, Linzi Ford (Andrew), Lanie Ford (Morgan), Lee Ford (Tara).   29 Great-grandchildren, 6 Great-great grandchildren, and 5 siblings, James Sanders, David Sanders Alan (Christine) Sanders, Lillian Steele, Marcella Phillips and many other family members.  

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Everett, a son Douglas Ford, a daughter Carolyn Ford, 1 great grandson Thomas William Hartman, 2 siblings Lowell Sanders, and Thomas Dee Sanders.  Helen wanted to give back to the Community what was so freely given to her, following the Palm Sunday Tornado (1965). She chose to work at Elkhart General Hospital beginning as a Candy Striper. She progressed to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and finished her nursing education as a Registered Nurse (RN). She was an active member of Sunnyside Mennonite church following the Palm Sunday tornado. Following her retirement in 2003, she spent her days enjoying her flowers and her family.    

  Per her request cremation has taken place. There will be a graveside service at Rice Cemetery, November 1, 2024 at 2:00pm; including a nursing guard ceremony. A celebration of life will begin at 3:30 at Sunnyside Mennonite Church; 23786 Sunnyside Ave, Elkhart, IN 46516.  Followed by a hot meal provided by the church. Everyone is welcome. Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home has been entrusted with her care. Arrangements may be delivered to Sunnyside Mennonite church on Thursday (10/31/24) between the hours of 9am and 1pm and Friday beginning at 9am. Donations are being accepted by family.  

Zoom Link for the Service at Sunnyside: 

https://gmail.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=287674dca229a61315f5e1ba3&id=edaa8da819&e=30052d974a