As family, employees past and present, classic car enthusiasts and community friends gathered at Ocean Park Ford's annual hot rod show earlier this month, they were saluting more than the iconic vehicles shining in the White Rock sun.
This year's show honoured the memory of its founder and long-time Ocean Park dealer principal, father, grandfather and friend Ron Ford, who passed away this summer.
“My father, Ron Ford, has been an inspiration to me and countless others,” son Rick Ford reflected after his father's passing. “His compassion, loyalty and unwavering commitment to our employees have shaped Ocean Park Ford into more than just a dealership – it’s a family. For 37 years, he has led with integrity, treating everyone with kindness and respect."
Longtime staff members shared the legacy Ron created.
"You're not just a customer; you become part of the family here," says Mary Wilton who for many years worked as a Service Advisor at the dealership. "That's the way Ron always wanted it. It was relaxed, it had a family atmosphere and we felt valued."
Born in Victoria, and fueled by a life-long passion for cars, Ron began his auto industry career as a salesperson in White Rock in 1979. In 1987, destiny handed him the keys to a Ford dealership, but it wasn't just about business for Ron.
"His love for automobiles transcended mere transactions; it was a symphony of chrome, horsepower, and memories," his obituary notes. "He reveled in attending car shows, where he'd run his fingers over polished fenders, sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts. Hot rods weren't just machines; they were living legends, and Ron was their devoted bard."
Beyond the showroom, Ron's legacy is felt by those he loved – wife Donna Ford, who stood by his side through life's twists and turns, children Rick, Ken and Sandi, and grandchildren Nicola, Gary, Johnny, Tony and Michael.
Grandson Tony Ford worked at the dealership for almost four years, learning much along the way. "I wouldn't be the man I am today without knowing him and having him part of our family," Tony reflected at the Sept. 14 celebration of life.
Ron's extended "dealership family" will also miss his passion and guidance.
"We have 65 to 70 members of staff who come in daily and Ron Ford knew every one of them by name," says Ocean Park Ford General Manager Phil Jessa. "He was one of those unique dealer principles and dealership owners who was involved every day in the aspects of the dealership and he certainly left behind a hard legacy to follow."
As in past years, the hot rod show also gave back to the community. Hosted in partnership with the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, all food and beverage proceeds from the show were donated to the hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation Department – adding to the more than $50,000 raised over the years.
And as the hot rod engines revved in tribute to the show's founder and passionate visionary, Ron's spirit surely rode shotgun in every one.
