Coletta C. (Saladin) Ford of Grand Rapids, Michigan, entered eternal life in the presence of her loving family at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Wednesday afternoon, January 19, 2005. She was 92 years old.
Coletta was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, their Altar Society, and Young Spirits.
She is survived by her children, Dorothy and John Monks of Jackson, Michigan, Barbara and Rodger Anderson, Gerald and Marcia Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; 18 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
Coletta was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Ford in 1976, two sisters, and three brothers.
Relatives and friends may meet her family at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, on Friday January 21, 2005 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and at the church on Saturday January 22, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Church on Saturday morning January 22, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. with burial in Resurrection Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Holy Spirit Education Foundation or Visiting Nurse Hospice.
Collette's Life Story:
Coletta K. Ford was a woman who understood dedication and hard work. Her grace and energy won her many friends and gave her the ability to find joy in the simplest of things. A devout Catholic, she gained strength and peace through prayer. She was deeply committed to her family, putting them first and wanting nothing more than their happiness. On February 18, 1912, Coletta became the third child born to Alice and Frederick Saladin, a family that would eventually grow to include eight children. In the Saladin household there was always something to do, as the family ran their small farm and worked hard to make ends meet. Times were tough, and their cows, chickens, pigs, and corn helped to supplement their needs. Not much, if anything, was left over for frills. In fact, one year Coletta and her sisters received one doll for Christmas that they were all to share. The farm had no electricity, and running water was provided by a windmill. All the cooking was done on a wood stove. The family had no car and used their horse and buggy for travel. The challenges they faced together only made them stronger, teaching them that money and possessions were not the things that provided happiness. Their treasure was the love that they had for one another. Coletta attended a small one-room schoolhouse in Parnell through the eight grade. She was interested in continuing her education at Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids and found employment in town with a doctor and his family. Coletta worked as a nanny, cook, and housekeeper. She was able to attend Catholic Central High and graduated with the class of 1930.That same year, Coletta ran into a young man she had known back in her hometown. His name was Hugh Ford, and it was nice to see someone from her old stomping grounds. Later on, she ran into him again in Grand Rapids. They were able to spend some time getting reacquainted and began dating. They fell in love and decided to marry. Money was tight for virtually everyone during those lean years of the Great Depression, and the two could not afford much of a ceremony. Taking the advice of a local priest, Coletta and Hugh decided to elope. They traveled to South Bend, Indiana, and exchanged vows in the Cathedral of Notre Dame on January 14, 1932. Obviously they were unable to afford a honeymoon, but for the happy young couple the trip to Indiana was adventure enough. After the wedding, the newlyweds lived with Coletta's sister and brother-in-law, Anastacia and Harold. Hugh was fortunate to find employment as a mechanic at Cowdins Texaco. He later got a job in sales in the automotive department at Sears where he remained until his retirement. After they had been married for a few years, Coletta and Hugh were able to rent their own home. Their first address was 342 Sunset NW in Grand Rapids. Soon after, they were blessed with four lovely children, whom they adored. The family later purchased a home at 551 Valley NW where they lived until about 1960. They then moved to their home on Stark until 1990.Growing up, Coletta's family had attended Mass regularly and Coletta's faith remained an important part of her life. She passed on her values to her children, sending them to the school at St. James Catholic Church where the family attended weekly. Coletta remained close to her parents and often returned to her family's homestead. Many Sundays were spent reminiscing and savoring the delicious meals prepared by Grandma Alice. Sometimes the whole clan would travel to Rockford. The ladies would go shopping and the young people would sometimes take in a show. Great Grandpa visited Carl Hydes, now known as the Corner Bar. The Fords enjoyed being together, and many special memories were made on the small pleasure boat that Hugh eventually was able to purchase. The family would often go to Grand Haven and venture out onto Lake Michigan, sometimes fishing but often just relaxing in the sun. Sometimes on hot summer nights, Hugh would take the family out and spend the entire night at the beach. They also spent a lot of time camping up north, enjoying the clean, cool air and the opportunity to just spend time together. Hugh and Coletta kept a reminder of their heritage with them by tending a garden together every year. They canned their own fruits and vegetables, and Coletta enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to can. Coletta also enjoyed growing beautiful roses. Hugh and Coletta were able to spend even more time together when, after twenty-five years of working at Sears, Hugh finally retired. The couple bought a trailer and traveled to Arizona in the winters. They loved being on the move and enjoyed a variety of activities, including cruises. In 1976, Coletta lost her beloved husband. That same year she was grieved to learn of the death of her mother, and she lost her father a few years later. She found great comfort in her children and took special care to build wonderful traditions and memories for them like those she had enjoyed with her own parents, especially during the holidays. She always decorated the house and prepared great meals, rejoicing in the presence of her loved ones. Coletta often joined her daughters when they canned their own fruits and vegetables, peeling and filling the jars but best of all sharing wonderful stories.Coletta was a great cook and baker, pies being her specialty. Her delectable creations included apple, cherry, coconut cream, and butterscotch. Her family loved her chili and chicken. She was also a talented seamstress and often made outfits and dresses for the girls. After Hugh's passing, Coletta remained at the home on Stark for a few years until the upkeep became too much for her. She then moved to Grandview Apartments where she stayed for the rest of her life. She remained very independent and active and until recently was still driving. Coletta was a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church and served on their Altar Society and Young Spirits. Coletta loved to visit casinos, but never spent more than $20.00 at a time. She was shocked last year when she won $10,000 at the Holy Spirit Church raffle. When asked what she was going to do with all that money, she responded, "Buy a new pair of shoes." She spent a lot of time with her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi. She adored each of her eighteen grandchildren and forty-six great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. The feeling was mutual. She sewed gifts for them and made delicious treats, a favorite being her famous malted milkshakes. She loved to play Yahtzee as well as card games like set back.Coletta had been healthy her whole life and had only visited a doctor a few times. When she called her daughter and said she wasn't feeling well, Barb took her to Butterworth Hospital right away. Coletta passed away soon after, privileged to have her loving daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter with her.Coletta died at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital on Wednesday, January 19, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh; two sisters, Anastacia and Rita; and three brothers, Lawrence, Leon, and Adrian. Coletta's family includes her children, Dorothy (John) Monks of Jackson, Barbara (Rodger) Anderson, Gerald (Marcia) Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; eighteen grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
Coletta was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, their Altar Society, and Young Spirits.
She is survived by her children, Dorothy and John Monks of Jackson, Michigan, Barbara and Rodger Anderson, Gerald and Marcia Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; 18 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
Coletta was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Ford in 1976, two sisters, and three brothers.
Relatives and friends may meet her family at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, on Friday January 21, 2005 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and at the church on Saturday January 22, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Church on Saturday morning January 22, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. with burial in Resurrection Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Holy Spirit Education Foundation or Visiting Nurse Hospice.
Collette's Life Story:
Coletta K. Ford was a woman who understood dedication and hard work. Her grace and energy won her many friends and gave her the ability to find joy in the simplest of things. A devout Catholic, she gained strength and peace through prayer. She was deeply committed to her family, putting them first and wanting nothing more than their happiness. On February 18, 1912, Coletta became the third child born to Alice and Frederick Saladin, a family that would eventually grow to include eight children. In the Saladin household there was always something to do, as the family ran their small farm and worked hard to make ends meet. Times were tough, and their cows, chickens, pigs, and corn helped to supplement their needs. Not much, if anything, was left over for frills. In fact, one year Coletta and her sisters received one doll for Christmas that they were all to share. The farm had no electricity, and running water was provided by a windmill. All the cooking was done on a wood stove. The family had no car and used their horse and buggy for travel. The challenges they faced together only made them stronger, teaching them that money and possessions were not the things that provided happiness. Their treasure was the love that they had for one another. Coletta attended a small one-room schoolhouse in Parnell through the eight grade. She was interested in continuing her education at Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids and found employment in town with a doctor and his family. Coletta worked as a nanny, cook, and housekeeper. She was able to attend Catholic Central High and graduated with the class of 1930.That same year, Coletta ran into a young man she had known back in her hometown. His name was Hugh Ford, and it was nice to see someone from her old stomping grounds. Later on, she ran into him again in Grand Rapids. They were able to spend some time getting reacquainted and began dating. They fell in love and decided to marry. Money was tight for virtually everyone during those lean years of the Great Depression, and the two could not afford much of a ceremony. Taking the advice of a local priest, Coletta and Hugh decided to elope. They traveled to South Bend, Indiana, and exchanged vows in the Cathedral of Notre Dame on January 14, 1932. Obviously they were unable to afford a honeymoon, but for the happy young couple the trip to Indiana was adventure enough. After the wedding, the newlyweds lived with Coletta's sister and brother-in-law, Anastacia and Harold. Hugh was fortunate to find employment as a mechanic at Cowdins Texaco. He later got a job in sales in the automotive department at Sears where he remained until his retirement. After they had been married for a few years, Coletta and Hugh were able to rent their own home. Their first address was 342 Sunset NW in Grand Rapids. Soon after, they were blessed with four lovely children, whom they adored. The family later purchased a home at 551 Valley NW where they lived until about 1960. They then moved to their home on Stark until 1990.Growing up, Coletta's family had attended Mass regularly and Coletta's faith remained an important part of her life. She passed on her values to her children, sending them to the school at St. James Catholic Church where the family attended weekly. Coletta remained close to her parents and often returned to her family's homestead. Many Sundays were spent reminiscing and savoring the delicious meals prepared by Grandma Alice. Sometimes the whole clan would travel to Rockford. The ladies would go shopping and the young people would sometimes take in a show. Great Grandpa visited Carl Hydes, now known as the Corner Bar. The Fords enjoyed being together, and many special memories were made on the small pleasure boat that Hugh eventually was able to purchase. The family would often go to Grand Haven and venture out onto Lake Michigan, sometimes fishing but often just relaxing in the sun. Sometimes on hot summer nights, Hugh would take the family out and spend the entire night at the beach. They also spent a lot of time camping up north, enjoying the clean, cool air and the opportunity to just spend time together. Hugh and Coletta kept a reminder of their heritage with them by tending a garden together every year. They canned their own fruits and vegetables, and Coletta enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to can. Coletta also enjoyed growing beautiful roses. Hugh and Coletta were able to spend even more time together when, after twenty-five years of working at Sears, Hugh finally retired. The couple bought a trailer and traveled to Arizona in the winters. They loved being on the move and enjoyed a variety of activities, including cruises. In 1976, Coletta lost her beloved husband. That same year she was grieved to learn of the death of her mother, and she lost her father a few years later. She found great comfort in her children and took special care to build wonderful traditions and memories for them like those she had enjoyed with her own parents, especially during the holidays. She always decorated the house and prepared great meals, rejoicing in the presence of her loved ones. Coletta often joined her daughters when they canned their own fruits and vegetables, peeling and filling the jars but best of all sharing wonderful stories.Coletta was a great cook and baker, pies being her specialty. Her delectable creations included apple, cherry, coconut cream, and butterscotch. Her family loved her chili and chicken. She was also a talented seamstress and often made outfits and dresses for the girls. After Hugh's passing, Coletta remained at the home on Stark for a few years until the upkeep became too much for her. She then moved to Grandview Apartments where she stayed for the rest of her life. She remained very independent and active and until recently was still driving. Coletta was a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church and served on their Altar Society and Young Spirits. Coletta loved to visit casinos, but never spent more than $20.00 at a time. She was shocked last year when she won $10,000 at the Holy Spirit Church raffle. When asked what she was going to do with all that money, she responded, "Buy a new pair of shoes." She spent a lot of time with her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi. She adored each of her eighteen grandchildren and forty-six great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. The feeling was mutual. She sewed gifts for them and made delicious treats, a favorite being her famous malted milkshakes. She loved to play Yahtzee as well as card games like set back.Coletta had been healthy her whole life and had only visited a doctor a few times. When she called her daughter and said she wasn't feeling well, Barb took her to Butterworth Hospital right away. Coletta passed away soon after, privileged to have her loving daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter with her.Coletta died at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital on Wednesday, January 19, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh; two sisters, Anastacia and Rita; and three brothers, Lawrence, Leon, and Adrian. Coletta's family includes her children, Dorothy (John) Monks of Jackson, Barbara (Rodger) Anderson, Gerald (Marcia) Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; eighteen grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
Coletta C. (Saladin) Ford of Grand Rapids, Michigan, entered eternal life in the presence of her loving family at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Wednesday afternoon, January 19, 2005. She was 92 years old.
Coletta was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, their Altar Society, and Young Spirits.
She is survived by her children, Dorothy and John Monks of Jackson, Michigan, Barbara and Rodger Anderson, Gerald and Marcia Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; 18 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
Coletta was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Ford in 1976, two sisters, and three brothers.
Relatives and friends may meet her family at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, on Friday January 21, 2005 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and at the church on Saturday January 22, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Church on Saturday morning January 22, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. with burial in Resurrection Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Holy Spirit Education Foundation or Visiting Nurse Hospice.
Collette's Life Story:
Coletta K. Ford was a woman who understood dedication and hard work. Her grace and energy won her many friends and gave her the ability to find joy in the simplest of things. A devout Catholic, she gained strength and peace through prayer. She was deeply committed to her family, putting them first and wanting nothing more than their happiness. On February 18, 1912, Coletta became the third child born to Alice and Frederick Saladin, a family that would eventually grow to include eight children. In the Saladin household there was always something to do, as the family ran their small farm and worked hard to make ends meet. Times were tough, and their cows, chickens, pigs, and corn helped to supplement their needs. Not much, if anything, was left over for frills. In fact, one year Coletta and her sisters received one doll for Christmas that they were all to share. The farm had no electricity, and running water was provided by a windmill. All the cooking was done on a wood stove. The family had no car and used their horse and buggy for travel. The challenges they faced together only made them stronger, teaching them that money and possessions were not the things that provided happiness. Their treasure was the love that they had for one another. Coletta attended a small one-room schoolhouse in Parnell through the eight grade. She was interested in continuing her education at Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids and found employment in town with a doctor and his family. Coletta worked as a nanny, cook, and housekeeper. She was able to attend Catholic Central High and graduated with the class of 1930.That same year, Coletta ran into a young man she had known back in her hometown. His name was Hugh Ford, and it was nice to see someone from her old stomping grounds. Later on, she ran into him again in Grand Rapids. They were able to spend some time getting reacquainted and began dating. They fell in love and decided to marry. Money was tight for virtually everyone during those lean years of the Great Depression, and the two could not afford much of a ceremony. Taking the advice of a local priest, Coletta and Hugh decided to elope. They traveled to South Bend, Indiana, and exchanged vows in the Cathedral of Notre Dame on January 14, 1932. Obviously they were unable to afford a honeymoon, but for the happy young couple the trip to Indiana was adventure enough. After the wedding, the newlyweds lived with Coletta's sister and brother-in-law, Anastacia and Harold. Hugh was fortunate to find employment as a mechanic at Cowdins Texaco. He later got a job in sales in the automotive department at Sears where he remained until his retirement. After they had been married for a few years, Coletta and Hugh were able to rent their own home. Their first address was 342 Sunset NW in Grand Rapids. Soon after, they were blessed with four lovely children, whom they adored. The family later purchased a home at 551 Valley NW where they lived until about 1960. They then moved to their home on Stark until 1990.Growing up, Coletta's family had attended Mass regularly and Coletta's faith remained an important part of her life. She passed on her values to her children, sending them to the school at St. James Catholic Church where the family attended weekly. Coletta remained close to her parents and often returned to her family's homestead. Many Sundays were spent reminiscing and savoring the delicious meals prepared by Grandma Alice. Sometimes the whole clan would travel to Rockford. The ladies would go shopping and the young people would sometimes take in a show. Great Grandpa visited Carl Hydes, now known as the Corner Bar. The Fords enjoyed being together, and many special memories were made on the small pleasure boat that Hugh eventually was able to purchase. The family would often go to Grand Haven and venture out onto Lake Michigan, sometimes fishing but often just relaxing in the sun. Sometimes on hot summer nights, Hugh would take the family out and spend the entire night at the beach. They also spent a lot of time camping up north, enjoying the clean, cool air and the opportunity to just spend time together. Hugh and Coletta kept a reminder of their heritage with them by tending a garden together every year. They canned their own fruits and vegetables, and Coletta enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to can. Coletta also enjoyed growing beautiful roses. Hugh and Coletta were able to spend even more time together when, after twenty-five years of working at Sears, Hugh finally retired. The couple bought a trailer and traveled to Arizona in the winters. They loved being on the move and enjoyed a variety of activities, including cruises. In 1976, Coletta lost her beloved husband. That same year she was grieved to learn of the death of her mother, and she lost her father a few years later. She found great comfort in her children and took special care to build wonderful traditions and memories for them like those she had enjoyed with her own parents, especially during the holidays. She always decorated the house and prepared great meals, rejoicing in the presence of her loved ones. Coletta often joined her daughters when they canned their own fruits and vegetables, peeling and filling the jars but best of all sharing wonderful stories.Coletta was a great cook and baker, pies being her specialty. Her delectable creations included apple, cherry, coconut cream, and butterscotch. Her family loved her chili and chicken. She was also a talented seamstress and often made outfits and dresses for the girls. After Hugh's passing, Coletta remained at the home on Stark for a few years until the upkeep became too much for her. She then moved to Grandview Apartments where she stayed for the rest of her life. She remained very independent and active and until recently was still driving. Coletta was a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church and served on their Altar Society and Young Spirits. Coletta loved to visit casinos, but never spent more than $20.00 at a time. She was shocked last year when she won $10,000 at the Holy Spirit Church raffle. When asked what she was going to do with all that money, she responded, "Buy a new pair of shoes." She spent a lot of time with her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi. She adored each of her eighteen grandchildren and forty-six great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. The feeling was mutual. She sewed gifts for them and made delicious treats, a favorite being her famous malted milkshakes. She loved to play Yahtzee as well as card games like set back.Coletta had been healthy her whole life and had only visited a doctor a few times. When she called her daughter and said she wasn't feeling well, Barb took her to Butterworth Hospital right away. Coletta passed away soon after, privileged to have her loving daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter with her.Coletta died at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital on Wednesday, January 19, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh; two sisters, Anastacia and Rita; and three brothers, Lawrence, Leon, and Adrian. Coletta's family includes her children, Dorothy (John) Monks of Jackson, Barbara (Rodger) Anderson, Gerald (Marcia) Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; eighteen grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
Coletta was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, their Altar Society, and Young Spirits.
She is survived by her children, Dorothy and John Monks of Jackson, Michigan, Barbara and Rodger Anderson, Gerald and Marcia Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; 18 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
Coletta was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Ford in 1976, two sisters, and three brothers.
Relatives and friends may meet her family at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW, on Friday January 21, 2005 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and at the church on Saturday January 22, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Church on Saturday morning January 22, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. with burial in Resurrection Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Holy Spirit Education Foundation or Visiting Nurse Hospice.
Collette's Life Story:
Coletta K. Ford was a woman who understood dedication and hard work. Her grace and energy won her many friends and gave her the ability to find joy in the simplest of things. A devout Catholic, she gained strength and peace through prayer. She was deeply committed to her family, putting them first and wanting nothing more than their happiness. On February 18, 1912, Coletta became the third child born to Alice and Frederick Saladin, a family that would eventually grow to include eight children. In the Saladin household there was always something to do, as the family ran their small farm and worked hard to make ends meet. Times were tough, and their cows, chickens, pigs, and corn helped to supplement their needs. Not much, if anything, was left over for frills. In fact, one year Coletta and her sisters received one doll for Christmas that they were all to share. The farm had no electricity, and running water was provided by a windmill. All the cooking was done on a wood stove. The family had no car and used their horse and buggy for travel. The challenges they faced together only made them stronger, teaching them that money and possessions were not the things that provided happiness. Their treasure was the love that they had for one another. Coletta attended a small one-room schoolhouse in Parnell through the eight grade. She was interested in continuing her education at Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids and found employment in town with a doctor and his family. Coletta worked as a nanny, cook, and housekeeper. She was able to attend Catholic Central High and graduated with the class of 1930.That same year, Coletta ran into a young man she had known back in her hometown. His name was Hugh Ford, and it was nice to see someone from her old stomping grounds. Later on, she ran into him again in Grand Rapids. They were able to spend some time getting reacquainted and began dating. They fell in love and decided to marry. Money was tight for virtually everyone during those lean years of the Great Depression, and the two could not afford much of a ceremony. Taking the advice of a local priest, Coletta and Hugh decided to elope. They traveled to South Bend, Indiana, and exchanged vows in the Cathedral of Notre Dame on January 14, 1932. Obviously they were unable to afford a honeymoon, but for the happy young couple the trip to Indiana was adventure enough. After the wedding, the newlyweds lived with Coletta's sister and brother-in-law, Anastacia and Harold. Hugh was fortunate to find employment as a mechanic at Cowdins Texaco. He later got a job in sales in the automotive department at Sears where he remained until his retirement. After they had been married for a few years, Coletta and Hugh were able to rent their own home. Their first address was 342 Sunset NW in Grand Rapids. Soon after, they were blessed with four lovely children, whom they adored. The family later purchased a home at 551 Valley NW where they lived until about 1960. They then moved to their home on Stark until 1990.Growing up, Coletta's family had attended Mass regularly and Coletta's faith remained an important part of her life. She passed on her values to her children, sending them to the school at St. James Catholic Church where the family attended weekly. Coletta remained close to her parents and often returned to her family's homestead. Many Sundays were spent reminiscing and savoring the delicious meals prepared by Grandma Alice. Sometimes the whole clan would travel to Rockford. The ladies would go shopping and the young people would sometimes take in a show. Great Grandpa visited Carl Hydes, now known as the Corner Bar. The Fords enjoyed being together, and many special memories were made on the small pleasure boat that Hugh eventually was able to purchase. The family would often go to Grand Haven and venture out onto Lake Michigan, sometimes fishing but often just relaxing in the sun. Sometimes on hot summer nights, Hugh would take the family out and spend the entire night at the beach. They also spent a lot of time camping up north, enjoying the clean, cool air and the opportunity to just spend time together. Hugh and Coletta kept a reminder of their heritage with them by tending a garden together every year. They canned their own fruits and vegetables, and Coletta enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to can. Coletta also enjoyed growing beautiful roses. Hugh and Coletta were able to spend even more time together when, after twenty-five years of working at Sears, Hugh finally retired. The couple bought a trailer and traveled to Arizona in the winters. They loved being on the move and enjoyed a variety of activities, including cruises. In 1976, Coletta lost her beloved husband. That same year she was grieved to learn of the death of her mother, and she lost her father a few years later. She found great comfort in her children and took special care to build wonderful traditions and memories for them like those she had enjoyed with her own parents, especially during the holidays. She always decorated the house and prepared great meals, rejoicing in the presence of her loved ones. Coletta often joined her daughters when they canned their own fruits and vegetables, peeling and filling the jars but best of all sharing wonderful stories.Coletta was a great cook and baker, pies being her specialty. Her delectable creations included apple, cherry, coconut cream, and butterscotch. Her family loved her chili and chicken. She was also a talented seamstress and often made outfits and dresses for the girls. After Hugh's passing, Coletta remained at the home on Stark for a few years until the upkeep became too much for her. She then moved to Grandview Apartments where she stayed for the rest of her life. She remained very independent and active and until recently was still driving. Coletta was a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church and served on their Altar Society and Young Spirits. Coletta loved to visit casinos, but never spent more than $20.00 at a time. She was shocked last year when she won $10,000 at the Holy Spirit Church raffle. When asked what she was going to do with all that money, she responded, "Buy a new pair of shoes." She spent a lot of time with her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi. She adored each of her eighteen grandchildren and forty-six great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. The feeling was mutual. She sewed gifts for them and made delicious treats, a favorite being her famous malted milkshakes. She loved to play Yahtzee as well as card games like set back.Coletta had been healthy her whole life and had only visited a doctor a few times. When she called her daughter and said she wasn't feeling well, Barb took her to Butterworth Hospital right away. Coletta passed away soon after, privileged to have her loving daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter with her.Coletta died at Spectrum Health-Butterworth Hospital on Wednesday, January 19, 2005. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh; two sisters, Anastacia and Rita; and three brothers, Lawrence, Leon, and Adrian. Coletta's family includes her children, Dorothy (John) Monks of Jackson, Barbara (Rodger) Anderson, Gerald (Marcia) Ford, and Kathleen Ford, all of Grand Rapids; eighteen grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren; her sisters, Agnes Tyrell and Delores Maksim; sisters-in-law, Emerita Saladin and Rose Saladin; her dear friends, Nora Duffy and Connie Glamzi; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
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