Obituary

Dan J. Fordham

Dan Fordham, age 89, longtime resident of Ferndale, passed away September 2, 2013. Dan served in the US Army, European Theater of Operation during World War II, where he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend, Dan was born in Binghamton, New York to parents Daniel and Claire Fordham. He graduated from Olean High School and Peterson Business College.

In 1948 he married Kathleen Welsh. They made their home in Jamestown, New York until moving to Ferndale, WA in 1958. He was employed by the Erie Railroad for many years and retired from the Safeway Corporation after 32 years of service.

Dan was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ferndale where he served on the Parish Council, Liturgy Committee, Hospitality Minister, and Social Committee. He also served as a Eucharistic Minister. He was also a member of the Ferndale Kiwanis Club, American Legion, and the Bellingham Elks Club. For many years Dan played Santa at the annual Christmas party for the patients at Providence Hospital in Seattle and various Christmas festivities in the area.

Dan is a charter member of the Knights of Columbus Holy Family Council 7356 and 4th Degree San Juan Assembly. He served in all offices including Grand Knight and District Deputy, as well as, Faithful Navigator for the San Juan Assembly. For twenty-five years Dan and his wife facilitated the monthly steak dinner at St. Josephs Social Hall.

Dan loved sports and was an avid fan of the Seattle Mariners and the University of Washington Husky football team. He enjoyed traveling, especially trips to Reno and Vegas, playing cards and bowling. He also enjoyed gardening and will be remembered for his beautiful hanging baskets. Dan loved his children, grandchildren and family gatherings.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Joseph and Francis. Dan is survived by his loving wife Kay of 65 years, his daughters Linda Fordham (Barry), Lori Fordham-Scruggs, grandchildren Sean Scruggs (Alexa), Shannon Scruggs, and great granddaughter Calista Scruggs. He also leaves behind his sister Patricia Heath, brother Gerald Fordham, sister-in-law Blanca Fordham and numerous nieces and nephews.

Farewell Tribute Information

Rosary and visitation are scheduled for 7:00 PM Friday, September 6th at Moles Funeral Home, on Main Street in Ferndale. The funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday September 7th 10:00 AM at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Ferndale, followed by graveside services at Greenacres Memorial Park. Final resting place will be at Woodlawn Cemetery.