ROCHESTER, Mich. - Tom Ford, the legendary former Head Athletic Trainer at Oakland University who cared for thousands of OU student-athletes and served hundreds of coaches during an incomparable thirty-year career, passed away earlier today surrounded by his immediate family.  

"No one in the history of OU Athletics has directly helped more student-athletes and been a trusted colleague to more coaches and staff than Tom. My thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and their family during this difficult time," said Director of Athletics Steve Waterfield, "Tom's legacy will endure through the people he helped, the athletic trainers he mentored, and the athletic training department he built."  

"Though I regret not having the opportunity to work with Tom, I am so fortunate to have met him after I arrived at OU and to get to know him and Kathy for the past five years. Greeting student-athletes each day with 'Good morning, Golden Grizzlies' Tom's optimism and caring spirit never wavered even as he faced ALS. True to his selflessness and care for others, Tom donated his organs to help others," said Waterfield.  

Calling hours will be Monday, July 24th from 3-8 p.m. at Potere-Modetz Funeral Home, 339 Walnut  Boulevard, Rochester, MI 48307. On Tuesday, July 25th, calling hours will be 10-11 a.m., with funeral services starting at 11 a.m., also at Potere-Modetz Funeral Home.  Immediately after the funeral, interment will occur at Guardian Angel Cemetery, 4701 N. Rochester Road, Rochester, MI 48306.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Tom's memory to the Tom Ford Athletic Training Room Endowment at Oakland University.  Donations may be made using the following link.  Tom Ford Athletic Training Room Endowment