Carl Ford

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Carl M. Ford, a man of resilience and accomplishment, entered into eternal rest on January 28, 2024, in Neosho, Missouri, at the age of 92. His life was a tapestry woven with dedication, service, and a zest for adventure. 

Born on November 1, 1931, in Newark, Texas, Carl embarked on a journey that would shape the lives of those around him. His early years were marked by education in Birdville, Texas, and a humble start working in a mattress factory.

 

In 1950, at the age of 17, he answered the call of duty, enlisting in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Honorably discharged in 1954, Carl moved to Goodman, Missouri. In Goodman, Carl carved a path of entrepreneurship and success. He purchased the Goodman Laundromat and ventured into drywall and finishing. His skills expanded, leading him into residential building and contracting. 

Alongside his wife, LaJoy, he founded Carl Ford Realty and Insurance. Their daughter, Debbie, joined the family business, and together they thrived in the realms of real estate and insurance. 

In the early 1980s, Carl and LaJoy transitioned into retirement, marking a new chapter in their lives. An avid licensed private pilot, Carl and LaJoy soared the skies, exploring different destinations in their aircraft. They embraced the nomadic lifestyle, traveling extensively with over thirty-one different friends, and even had a travel home named the 'LaJoy.' Cruises and explorations added rich chapters to their retirement story. 

Beyond the business world, Carl found joy in cattle farming, mowing, boating, and deer hunting. In 1952, he married LaJoy Caldwell in Ft. Worth, Texas, and their union spanned an impressive 71 years.

Carl is survived by his loving wife LaJoy and two daughters, Debbie Cooper and husband David of Key West, Florida, and Carla Hasche of Bellingham, Washington. His legacy extends through seven grandchildren – Adam Cooper, Karl Hasche, Viktor Hasche, Kassandra Campbell, Stefan Hasche, Devin Cooper, and Anna Hasche – along with eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Ruth Height and Judy Keith. 

Preceding him in death are his parents, a grandson, Max Hasche, and two brothers, Den Ford, and Archie Newby.

Funeral services to celebrate Carl's life will be held on February 1, 2024, at 2 pm at the Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, with Dr. Jerry Seigel officiating. Interment will follow in the Anderson Cemetery. Pallbearers include Adam Cooper, Karl Hasche, Devin Cooper, C.J. Campbell, Chris Campbell, Stefan Hasche, and Jamey Gilion. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends on Thursday from 1 pm until the service. 

Contributions in memory of Carl may be made to the Oak Pointe Activity Fund, c/o Clark Funeral Home, PO Box 66; Neosho, MO 64850.
Online condolences may be posted at www.clarkfuneralhomes.com

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.