Republican Rep. Jeff Espich of Uniondale, who was a close friend of Ford’s and visited him often after he became ill, said he was heartsick about the death.
     
He said Ford was a good, honest man whose Senate colleagues called him “the road warrior because he was always out on the road doing town meetings and visiting constituents.”
     
The General Assembly, he said, had lost “far and away the best expert on technology issues, as it relates to education, operation of government. He was far ahead of anyone in terms of those kinds of issues.”
     
Ford, who did not miss a single vote in the Senate last year, had not been in the Senate since Jan. 15. On Feb. 21 he wrote a letter to the editor thanking his constituents for their support, e-mails, cards and prayers.
     
“Obviously, this is not the way I would prefer to be representing you because I prefer being in the middle of the fray as opposed to the sidelines, but it is the best I can do for now,” Ford wrote.
     
He went on to thank his constituents for understanding. “It is this ‘heart of gold’ spirit within Hoosiers that constantly reminds me of why I do this job and how important it
really is,” he wrote.
     
Services for Ford will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Muncie. Details were not immediately announced.
     
Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Joyce; a daughter, Kelly Konzel of Granger; three sons, Jeff Ford of Chicago; Andrew Ford of Indianapolis; Matthew Ford of Marion; and two grandchildren.

Statement from House Minority Leader Brian Bosma (R):

“The loss of David Ford is a very personal loss for many members of the General Assembly. He was a man of integrity, character, faith and intelligence. He was not only a legislative colleague and leader, but he was a friend as well, said Bosama. ”I admired his work ethic and his steadfastness in his beliefs. He was not afraid to stand firm, even alone if need be, rather than abandon his beliefs.”

“David was a tremendous visionary for our state in the areas of economic development, technology and improving Hoosier lives. My prayers are with Joyce Ann and their four children. I know their faith will comfort them, but their loss is nevertheless tremendous and they are in my prayers.”

Funeral arrangements:

Ford’s family will receive friends from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 7, at St. John’s Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. A Liturgical Service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday at St. John’s Catholic Church.  Father David Newton will conduct the funeral service at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 8, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2300 W. Jackson St., Muncie. Interment will be at Brookside Memorial Park in Montpelier, IN.
 

Statement from Congressman Mike Pence (R-IN):

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Indiana Senator David C. Ford. David Ford’s passing is a loss to the entire state, said Pence. ”David Ford was a tireless advocate for the families and communities of Senate District 19. During our last visit, just weeks before his passing, Senator Ford still took time to advocate his optimistic vision for technology benefiting all Hoosiers.”

“The four-term Republican senator was not only a leader for the people of his district, he was a recognized leader across the State of Indiana. His stature was recognized last year when Senator Ford was named Government Leader of the Year by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Senator Ford also served as Assistant Majority Floor Leader and chaired the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Technology.”

“David Ford was a role model to me. His humble example of honest and visionary public service was an inspiration to all of us who had the privilege to know him. I will miss his example, his counsel and his friendship very much.”

Statement from Dan Parker, Indiana Democratic Party:

“Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and friends Sen. Ford leaves behind. Indiana has lost a dedicated public servant who always stood by his principles, even when it meant disagreeing with members of his own party. His presence will be greatly missed in the Senate.”

Statement from Gov. Mitch Daniels:

“I knew Dave Ford as a fellow student early in life, as a legislator the last three years, and as a kind and thoughtful friend in between. I haven’t met a more insightful or harder working member of the General Assembly. I’m not sure a person like Dave Ford can be replaced.”