Tribute To Steve
A Tribute to Captain Steve Ford
Following the tragic loss of a much loved man, respected pilot and helicopter instructor Captain Steve Ford in a motorcycle accident on Saturday 18th October 2008, we have set up this page so that you can share your messages, memories and condolences.
Please click here to email us your message. We will then add to this page.
20th October 2008
Heléna Holt, Chief Executive of the Devon Air Ambulance Trust
On behalf of the charity/service
Steve Ford was a truly remarkable man and pilot, respected and loved by all the team. He has led a life of giving, joining Bond Air Services, the company we lease one of our helicopters from, after a distinguished career as a pilot in the Army.
Whenever he could, Steve gave up his time to volunteer for the charity, whether that was accepting cheques on the charity's behalf at presentations, helping at the recent Commando Challenge, or acting as a marshal at our base to base annual motorcycle ride. He was a star.
We are a close knit team, both in and out of work, and we are devastated at the news of Steve's death. Our thoughts are with his wife Julia, who also worked for the charity, and their children at this very difficult and sad time.
20th October 2008
Nigel Hare, Clinical Support Officer - Devon Air Ambulance
Steve's enthusiasm played a pivotal role in developing the service the Devon Air Ambulance offers today. Recently, through his training role, he has been able to share this experience to help develop other Air Ambulance services throughout England, Scotland and Wales. His death is a great loss, not just personally and to the team here in Devon, but throughout the UK.
22nd October 2008 22nd October 2008 23rd October 2008
Steve did my ground school for the Bolkow when I left the RAF. He was a very conscientious instructor, insisting that I see an engine that he had to collect himself from Staverton. Nothing was too much of a problem for him and I know he would have made a very professional North Sea bus driver. RIP Steve. I had the pleasure of working with Steve at Bond Air Services. He was such a lovely guy, he always had a smile. Will you please pass on my heart felt sympathy to the family and friends of Captain Stephen Ford, at his sad loss. Long may the tributes flow and the memories linger. The world will move on but has lost some of its sparkle. 23rd October 2008 I first met Steve 10 years ago when he joined Bond Air Services at Exeter. I carried out his conversion to the BO105 and introduced him to the worlds of air ambulance and lighthouse support operations, all of which he took to as the professional he was. 24th October 2008 I had the pleasure and honour to meet and fly with Dick Metson and Steve Ford when I was loaned to Devon Air Ambulance in 1999. MY leaving present, which Steve signed, has pride of place in my home. I had the chance to catch up on old times with Steve just a few weeks ago at Bond when he was my simulator instructor. His departure was a great shock. Steve was a lovely, friendly and extremely dedicated guy. His aviation knowledge was truly amazing and he was a total professional. I was lucky to have known Steve, my heart felt condolences to Steve's family and friends. Goodbye and fly high Steve. 24th October 2008 Steve Ford and I have been friends for 30 years. We have taught, flown, fought and laughed our way through most things that life can throw at us. 29th October 2008 Though we met only briefly, few are held in such high regard and genuine affection. My sympathy goes to Steve's family and those for whom his loss has made the world a sadder place.
29th October 2008 I met Steve on many occasions over the years, usually at the Airbase, and however potentially daunting the group we had brought along, he would be first to greet us with his huge welcoming smile, his enthusiasm transmitting itself immediately to the visitors. He was immensely likeable and with a real gift for communication, and like so many others, I feel privileged to have known him. My sincere condolences to Julia and the family.
29th October 2008 Steve has been a regular part of our lives in recent years, whether visiting us with Julia through the Welcome Garden Scheme, or hosting Airbase visits for the Junior Crew Club. His smile and warmth of character lit everything around him and we find it difficult to believe that he is no longer with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with Julia and the whole family at this very difficult time.
29th October 2008 Unfortunately I never got the chance to meet Steve, but from reading the condolences I can see that he was a truely remarkable, kind, caring gentleman and nothing was ever to much trouble.
29th October 2008 29th October 2008
30th October 2008 From the airlifted patient to the guy briefly encountered in the paper shop. From the myriad work colleagues to his close family & friends, we all owe a debt of gratitude for having known Steve. I've never known anyone with so much knowledge about rotary flight & enthusiasm for sharing it as Steve. Those lucky enough to be on an airbase visit when Steve was there, were treated to the "full works" - principles of flight, turbines, avionics, the lot! He certainly captured the imagination of my son Angus, on our first visit to the old base at the airport, when we were treated to a complete tour of 'TC'. Angus' sole ambition now is to fly. I'll remember our chats, rugby, your ears & your bald patch, the whisky, your grin & your friendship. There's a big 'Steve-shaped' hole in our lives that can never be filled. Bye mate, see you later.
28th October 2008 Steve was a good decent bloke. I only met him once, my daughter knew him obviously as a colleague, but you could see in an instant what a good, decent and friendly bloke he was. His death is a great loss to everybody, the world is a poorer sadder and emptier place without him. I was and still am stunned by Steve's accident, Steve was my first introduction to Bond Air Services, and Hems flying, his passion and enthusiasm for the job was stunning, and his instruction to the work and aircraft was the best you could wish for and there is know a void that can never be filled. Steve was a true professional in every way and a perfect gentleman.
30th October 2008 On this sad day of Steve's funeral I would like pass on my sincere and heartfelt condolences to Julia and to the other members of Steve's family; such a shock and huge loss to you, as to all of us that new him. During my 25 years flying helicopters I have encountered a great many training captains, and Steve was one of the best. He was always willing to pass on his very considerable knowledge, and was able to do so with such enthusiasm and ease. He was very professional, conscientious and committed to his work, someone I greatly respected and admired. You were a great bloke Steve and will be much missed. Cheers mate....
I had the privilege to work with Steve over the last 4 years and like everyone was devastated when we heard the news about Steve’s tragic accident . He was such a true gentleman, always approachable and always happy to help me especially in my first few months on the operation when I was completely out of my comfort zone as a new HEMS crew member. Steve excelled confidence, professionalism and great leadership in the team at Exeter and I know whoever came into contact with Steve will echo this. Steve had a huge heart someone who you always felt .comfortable that you could speak to in confidence . You will be sadly missed fordy but never forgotten. Our love and thoughts are with Julia and Steve’s family at this extremely difficult time .
Ian Wilson, Bond Air Services
Having known and worked with Steve since our service in 3 Army Regt Air Corps I would like to add my condolences. Steve will surely be missed.
22nd October 2008
Elly Clark - Training Administrator, Bond Air Services
I worked with Steve for three years upon joining Bond. He made all the colours brighter with his energy, warmth and compassion. A true gentleman who adored both his job and his family, he will be horribly missed but I feel lucky to have known him. Rest in peace, dear friend.
22nd October 2008
Andy Lett - Pilot, Bond Air Services
Steve made my transition from the military to civilian flying with Bond a pleasure. A true gentleman whose enthusiasm and professionalism rubbed off on everyone who had the honour of working with him.
A sad, sad loss. Rest in peace.
22nd October 2008
Phil Mingo - Pinnacle Photo Agency UK
The pain that I feel is nothing to that of Steve's family and a sad loss to all those that met and worked with this great man. I had the honour to work alongside Steve as the flying photographer for a few years.
If there were ever a smile that could lift a picture, it was Steve's. He had a grin that said it all and a true professional in every way.
Steve, you will be missed but never forgotten and remain in our hearts for ever x
22nd October 2008
Sarah Smith - ex Bond Air Services
I knew Fordy through Bond Air Services in the Operations Department. A lovely lovely guy, who was an honest, caring and compassionate person. I can't believe this has happened. The world can be a very unfair place to live in. RIP Steve. We won't forget you. x
22nd October 2008
Peter Cummings - Head of Training, Bond Air Services
As my instructor, my colleague and latterly as my deputy, Steve was a dedicated and consummate professional. He coaxed, cajoled and sometimes damn well insisted you be a better pilot! His energy never faltered and his enthusiasm never waned. There will be other instructors, but there will never be another Steve Ford. Cheers mate.
Sam Tompkins
Steve's striking personality was one of warmth, energy and kindness which filled those around him and made a lasting impression on all he met. I feel lucky to have met him, he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
22nd October 2008
Jeremy Spake - Author and Broadcaster
I am deeply saddened by the tragic news of Steve's passing. Steve was a consummate professional, who inspired all with his commitment not only to flying, but also the Air Ambulance movement in Great Britain.
My team and I send our deepest sympathy to Steve's family, friends and colleagues, who like us, will miss his kind and humanitarian nature.
Steve, may you rest in peace.
22nd October 2008
Simon Budd - Suzuki
It always hurts when a fellow biker is killed; but the world is now a sadder place.
RIP Steve
22nd October 2008
Sarah Burden - PR Officer, Devon Air Ambulance Trust
I am honoured to call Steve and Julia my friends. Working for something like the Devon Air Ambulance is more than a job, it's a family, and we all look out for each other when something like this happens. Julia we are here for you and the family.
I have nothing but fond memories of Steve, which even at this sad time makes me smile. For example the time when we, together with broadcaster Jeremy Spake took a trip around Diggerland in the bucket of a jcb digger. Apparently the assault course taken is usually quite tame, but because it was a special charity event, we got the training instructor of the 'dancing diggers'! Sorry to tell secrets out of school Steve, but ... you did nearly throw up when you got out ;-)
Rest in peace Steve - you are a true gent, a good friend, and will be greatly missed. I hope you and Karen meet up for a pint - or rather an expensive bottle of wine maybe? xxx
22nd October 2008
Jonathan Binnie - Pilot, Bristol Helicopters, Scatsta, Shetland
Steve was due to join us flying the Sikorsky S92 up in Scatsta. Several of us up here in Shetland knew Steve, either through working with him at Bond Air Services, or through Army connections.
We were delighted when we heard that he was coming to join us, and were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of his death.
Our prayers and thoughts are with Julia and his family.
We, like many others, will miss him.
22nd October 2008
Merrick Forsyth - Director of Flight Operations, Bond Air Services
It was my privilege to know Steve as a pilot, instructor and more importantly a friend. His enthusiasm for life and his job as both instructor and EMS pilot was without question.
I experienced his exacting standards at first hand during my conversion to the BO105 helicopter and like many other pilots in Bond Air Services I am all the better for them.
His departure marks the passing of a true gentleman and he will be sadly missed, my thoughts and those of all at Bond are with Julia and the rest of his family.
Rest in peace mate.
23rd October 2008
David White
I am speechless, we have lost many good people recently, and you, my friend, were one of the best, kind, respectful, and brave, a good man, truly missed, you are one of the best, your life will on in all of us forever, and will never be forgotten.
Look after you.
23rd October 2008
Helen Mathias
Sincere condolences to Steve's wife and family.
A big loss not just to DAAT but all around. Steve did so much good.
Thinking of you all.
23rd October 2008
Sue Cheadle - Operations, Bond Air Services
Such a short time known, but a long time remembered!
it was a pleasure to have worked with you!
You will be missed.
Captain Steve Hayward - Netjets Europe
I did Steve's conversion onto the EC135 when I was with Bond. An absolute pleasure to fly with, and one of life's nice guys. Always friendly and had time for you, whenever you ran into him. Like so many others I was shocked to hear of his death.
My condolences to his family and many friends at this terrible time.
23rd October 2008
Maggie Little
Steve was a true gentleman who always had a smile on his face. He was instrumental in helping to cure my fear of flying for which I shall always be grateful.
It is hard to take in the passing of such a lovely man and my heart goes out to Julia and her family.
Rest in peace, Steve.
23rd October 2008
Martin Darlington - Bond Air Services, Central Wales Air Ambulance
I first met Steve in '97 where he was my Squadron Instructor in the Army Air Corps. We remained in touch when he left the Army and he was one the main influences in my joining the world of HEMS when it was my turn to leave.
Since joining Bond in Jan 06 Steve has always been my first choice go-to guy for questions, queries or guidance, something that he gave without hesitation or criticism. As a fellow biker I also enjoyed talking bikes and roads but sadly never did get to enjoy a ride-out with him.
He also brought me into the training world, teaching me on my Training Captain course then becoming my boss. He's been, without doubt, the biggest single influence on my flying career and I have, and will continue to attempt to approach my instructing with the same enthusiasm, dedication and thoroughness that Steve always displayed.
I can't think of many people who have had such a positive impact on so many people's lives as Steve had. His loss has been one of the most shocking events I can remember and it's so hard to find anything positive to take from it, save that I have been privileged to have known such a dynamic, likable and professional character. They really did break the mould when they made this one. His family have my deepest, sincerest sorrow at their loss.
RIP
23rd October 2008
Chris Cooper - Captain, Bond Offshore Helicopters
23rd October 2008
Maria Rogers - ex Bond Air Services
Fordy, I'll never forget the kind words and offer of support you gave me. You touched my life and so many others,
I feel honoured to have known you! xx
23rd October 2008
Mike Passant
This makes it all the more for me to support this charity.
23rd October 2008
Ken Lewis - Bond Air Services
It was a privilege to work alongside such a consummate professional, I and a lot many others will miss your presence.
Rest easy my friend.
Tim Jones - Pilot, Bond Offshore Helicopters
I had the pleasure of working with Steve as a paramedic and then benefited from his unparallelled knowledge and experience when I became a pilot. He always insisted on leaving me with his mobile number in case I needed help, which was a very welcome safety blanket and I hope that I, and countless others, didn't interrupt his family time too often with daft questions. He had an infectious enthusiasm for life and flying that is irreplaceable and will be sadly missed.
Cheers Steve.
23rd October 2008
Stuart Matthews - BVT Surface Fleet Ltd
I only worked briefly with Steve whilst help arrange DAAT’s 10 year birthday celebrations but in that short time he displayed himself as such a thoroughly professional and highly dedicated pilot whose enthusiasm and love of life was infectious. He was one of life's true gentlemen who gave his all in helping others in need. He will be greatly missed.
Please convey our thoughts to Julia & family.
23rd October 2008
Pete Martin - North Devon Air Ambulance Pilot, Eaglescott
A great pilot, fantastic instructor and more importantly a top bloke. Steve was one of the best, and Devon will be a sadder place without him. God bless and RIP mate.
23rd October
Lee Phillips (airlifted 18th October 1998)
Just heard. Deepest sympathy firstly to his family, then friends, work companions, pilots and ground crew, fellow bikers and everyone touched by the D.A.A.T.
Another good guy lost.
Thank you for every moment you gave to forward the air ambulance, I owe my able bodied life to your kind.
23rd October 2008
Chris Cairns - Pilot, Bristow Helicopters Limited, Aberdeen
I was due to join Steve on an S92 conversion course next month, and having worked alongside him in the past with Bond Air Services I was looking forward to catching up on old times.
So it was with deep regret to read the sad news at work today.
My condolences go to Julia & his family.
He will be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Rest in peace, Steve.
23rd October
Dick Metson - Former Training Captain, Bond Air Services
Nominally I was the instructor but from Steve I learnt a great deal about discipline and dedication, about commitment and consistency.
My logbook shows that between the 5th and the 25th of July 1998 we spent over 40hrs flying together and that's a lot of talking! His love of his family, of life and of his job were all infectious and he and Julia became true friends.
He set the very highest standards in all that he did, was always ready to lend a hand when required and could light up a room with his smile.
I miss you, my friend, and my heart goes out to Julia and the family.
Captain Ian Kingston
Captain David Surtees - Senior Pilot, Essex Air Ambulance
Steve gave me the inspiration to carry on when the world was too heavy and was always there when the right words needed to be heard.
My Best Friend and Brother in Arms is gone from this world, but not from my heart. Sleep well my Friend. One day we'll fly again.
24th October
Steve wright- Paramedic on Devon Air Ambulance's
I had the privilage of working with Steve for several years during his time on the Air Ambulance. He always had an infectious enthusiasm for the job and for helping others.
His skills as a pilot in no doubt contributed to the well-being and quicker recovery of patients in our care. He was a real team member and you knew you were safe with Steve at the controls.
He was a great ambassador for the charity and the operation wouldnt be as successful today without Steve's selfless efforts over the years.
I know everyone who knew him will be deeply saddened but the memories of the person he was keeps us all looking on the bright side. It was better to have known him than not have known him at all.
My heartfelt condolnences go out to Julia and Steve's family.
A great bloke, a great loss.
Stevie 'STANBY' Ford, rest in peace.
24th October 2008
Phil Merritt - Bond Air Services
Steve,
You were a true professional and a great guy. I was gutted to hear of your accident and shall miss being able to contact you. Thanks for all your wonderful help.
Rest in peace mate.
24th October 2008
Steve Day - Bond Air Services
Having first met Steve just four years ago, I am fortunate to be able to say that he has played a pivotal role in my career as one of his colleagues at Bond Air Services.
His enthusiasm, professionalism and outstanding abilities as an instructor are a true inspiration.
Steve, I have learnt so much from you and will continue to do so. You will be sadly missed by us all. The aviation community and the World as a whole, are poorer places with out you.
Rest in peace my friend, assured that we will never forget you.
24th October 2008
Glenn Birtwisle - Paramedic, Devon
Always enthusiastic. Always helpful. A brilliant bloke to work with. I enjoyed the time we spent together you were great fun. Rest in peace Steve.
24th October 2008
Captain Campbell Brand - Bond Helicopters NLB Bo 105 Pilot
It was with great sadness that I learnt of Steve's passing having known him for some 20 years from our army days and latterly when I joined Bond as an NLB pilot. Steve always gave 100% in everything he was involved in and it was infectious. Steve really found his forte when he became an instructor as his personality, natural enthusiasm and drive were tailor made for that calling. The highest standards became normal as second best was not acceptable, many pilots including myself are all the better for Steve's natural ability in that role. Like many I will miss him and am saddened at his passing but will remember his smile, laugh and some good times spent together over the odd dram of a good malt. Heartfelt condolences to Julia and the family. Rest easy mate - Slanj.
24th October 2008
Dave Price - Bond Air Services Ltd, Type Specialist & Project Co-ordinator
A truly professional and nice guy that will be solely missed from his place in the industry and even more so as a friend
24th October 2008
Jules Bennett - Paramedic Exeter and North Devon Air Ambulance
I was privileged to have known and worked with Steve. A true gent who will be sadly missed by all.
Rest in Peace my Friend.
My condolences to Julia and Family.
24th October 2008
Dave Bowman - Clinical Adviser Ambulance Control West
It was a pleasure to know you youll be missed.
24th October 2008
John Banks (Control) - Former 3 Commando Brigade Air Squadron
Steve,
We have all lost a very good friend. Rest in Peace.
24th October 2008
MPC Chris Lancaster, RCRO, Devon and Cornwall Constabulary
It was with great sadness that I learnt that the fatality of another motorcyclist last weekend was an old friend and ex colleague. I served with Steve in 3 Regt AAC in Soest and after I left to join the Police bumped into him again during his time in the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary. Our paths crossed on many ocasions professionally and also through our mutual interest of motorcycling. He was a cracking bloke who would go out of his way to help if it was needed.He will be sadly missed, but not forgotten.
Sincere condolences to Julia and his family, close friends and colleagues.
24th October 2008
Crazy Davies - Ex Army Air Corps
Just heard the tragic news of Steve's death.
I first met Steve in the early 80's, we played rugby together, we went rock climbing together, but sadly I never had the privilege of sharing a cockpit with him.
A sad loss to humankind.
26th October 2008
Lyn Paver
I am honoured to have worked with Steve for nearly eight years. Steve was one of life's true gents, always the first to offer to help the Charity at fundraising events. I remember with fondness Steve's help in pushing me up the last hill on the Commando Challenge a few years ago when the office staff and aircrew entered a team, I wouldn't have made it with out him, but that was Steve, always willing to help and support in any situation.
My son leaves for the USA soon to train as a helicopter pilot, solely down to Steve's influence and infectious enthusiasm for the work he did!
Steve; I will be with the bikers on your last journey. God Bless you.........."
26th October 2008
Jo Thomas - Knighton Ambulance Station
I work as a tech with WAST and one of my station colleagues work's on our AA based out from Welshpool. He mentioned this sad news when returning to station the other day.
I just wanted to pass on my thoughts to you all and his family.
The pilots of all the AAs are a great bunch. Always willing to help and offer advice. In short great to work alongside and the loss of one of them, esp. in such tragic circumstances, hits pilots and medics alike.
26th October 2008
Paul Westaway - Bond Air Services, Training Services Manager
I will miss Steve for his enthusiasm and passion for flying and teaching. He set a high standard for himself and encouraged that in others not just in his flying career but also in general life. He was a friend and an encouragement to many and we are all challenged by his example. Knowing and working with Steve has been a privilege and although he is not with us anymore, his example is there for us who knew him, to draw upon.
27th October
Matt Wood, Bond Pilot, Staffordshire
I would like to extend my condolences to the family and friends of Steve. My experience of him was that he was an exceptional Training Captain and a Gentleman, and I thank him for the assistance he gave me, nothing was ever too much trouble.
27th October 2008
Craig Webster - Bond Trinity Pilot
Steve was also a pilot for Trinity House, a role into which he trained me with great patience, humour and enthusiasm.
I could not have asked for a better pilot to show me the way into my new role and although I only knew him for a short time, his impact on my life will be lasting.
I am proud to have been trained by such a professional and respected pilot. Thank You. My thoughts are now with Steve's family who I know he loved so much.
27th October 2008
Craig Trott - Bond Air Services, Glasgow Heliport
Steve,
It was a terrible shock to hear about the accident. As can be seen from the vast number of tributes from so many of your past and present friends, you were a great bloke who touched so many people's lives ... I'll miss the banter from your visits to Glasgow...
RIP
28th October 2008
Al and Joan Bisseker
Steve was one of life`s true gentlemen, always a pleasure to work with, great company both inside and outside of work.
We had great times on motorcycle journeys which took us to places like the wilds of west Ireland and Northern France, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him,our hearts go out to Julia and family.
Rest in peace mate
28th October 2008
Neville Catchpole - Bond Air Services, Engineer
Reminiscing of times spent with Steve, primarily with the Devon Air Ambulance at Exeter Airport, I can say that he was someone who would make a lasting impression on anyone who met him.
My sincere condolences go out to Julia and his family. I trust that they can find some comfort in their sorrows by the many tributes afforded to Steve.
R.I.P.
28th October 2008
Paul Gerry - Emergency Care Practitioner, Devon.
I was fortunate enough to work with Steve for a number of years on the Devon Air Ambulance, he was a wonderful man, kind, thoughtful, a team player who I quickly warmed to.
He always had a good story to tell often about his time in the army and his love of his family.
Steve will always be in my thoughts, never forgotten.
My condolences to Julia and his family.
Gillian Bryce - Medical Director, SWAST and Trustee, DAAT
Piers Le Cheminant - Devon Air Ambulance Trust
Norman and Jenny Buckle - Volunteers and DAAT Supporters
Sarah Crocker - Devon Air Ambulance Shop, Topsham
He was one of the good guys in life, unfortunately his own life has been cut short following this tragic accident.
Steve touched the hearts of many and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
My deepest sympathy goes out to his family at this difficult time.
R.I.P Steve you'll never be forgotten.
Ges Charlton - Bond Pilot
I have only known Steve for just short of 2 years, he did my conversion on to the BO105 and taught me a load more besides.
He was a gent and a joy to fly with (even when being checked!).
He gave me his mobile number to contact him at any time if I had any problems or needed advice, I'll miss that, but more especially the man himself.
RIP dear friend.
Paul Gerry - Emergency Care Practitioner, Devon
I was fortunate enough to work with Steve for a number of years on the Devon Air Ambulance, he was a wonderful man, kind, thoughtful, a team player who I quickly warmed to.
He always had a good story to tell often about his time in the army and his love of his family.
Steve will always be in my thoughts, never forgotten.
My condolences to Julia and his family.
Iain Creer
Every one of our lives have been enriched by him. That's why all of our thoughts are now with Julia & their family.
Kate (Forsyth)
Me and my husband Graham, all my family, send our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this very sad time.
28th October 2008
Andy Bowden - Base Pilot, County Air Ambulance, RAF Cosford
My condolences to his family and all concerned who knew Steve, I would like to have paid my final respects to Steve at his funeral but unfortunately I was on duty and unable to attend.
Rest in peace Steve
A good friend, great instructor and perfect gent.
30th October 2008
Martin Robinson, Paramedic, CSO, Burnham on Sea
I flew with Steve on several occasions during my time with the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and I know that he will be sadly missed. He taught us all a great deal while he was with us.
My condolences to all of Steve's friends and family.
Pete Hodges
28th October 2008
Paul Robinson - Paramedic, Devon Air Ambulance
30th October 2008
Tony Duff - Captain Bond Offshore Helicopters
Steve and I were on the same Pilots course in the Army and occasionally ran into each other over the years. He never seemed to change much, always had a smile and was a Gentleman. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family and may he Rest in Peace.
18th November 2008
Phil Haworth, Pilot
Just found out that Steve is no longer with us. I can't believe it, a sad loss.
RIP Steve and my thoughts to the family and extended family.
19th November 2008
Mark Hale - Ex Aircrew Devon Air Ambulance
So very difficult to know where to begin, Steve, my family and friends who had the great fortune to have been in your company so often over the years.
Your kindness and generous spirit, warmth and genuine interest in all around you did not go unnoticed. The humour, sadness, tales of madness from your army days. We had Hot curries and hotter chillies. We had stories and tales of Army and flying, your enthusiasm boundless, you just got stuck in!
You did what you thought was right, honestly and entirely. Julia was the light in your life and your eyes sparkled with swollen pride when you spoke of her and the girls, your son, daughter and family. So very proud of your mum putting you all on the road to success. You took your jokes, and gave back fairly and equally. You did not tire when we were all dim, but patiently continued hoping it would sink in.
We who have known you, have been touched by your humanity, a modest man who lived life, loved life!
I shall miss you. Thanks for giving me the time to be a friend. Love to your Julia, (delicate hands), Sleep well. King’s Men!! XX
19th November 2008
Rick London (another one of Steve's young pilots)
I met Steve when I got to my first Sqn in the Air Corps and he was immediately a guiding light and a font of all knowledge as my Sqn instructor. Lessons I learnt from him in those fledgling days of flying I still employ 12 years later to great effect.
A sad loss to the whole community.
I am sure the Angels are already learning the vector diagram and factors a, b and c.
Sleep well Steve.
15th December 2008
Neil Strevens
I only learned of Steve’s sad death today after Julia received our Christmas card and realised I hadn’t heard. I knew Steve and Julia well during my exchange tour in Detmold, where we moved at about the same time and our daughters were firm friends. Our friendship transcended the officer/SNCO boundaries and inter-squadron/service rivalries, but I see we only flew together once! I remember his willingness both to teach and listen, his insistence on quality (which he never found in my activities) and the respect afforded him by the whole Regiment. More than any recent similar event, Steve’s death is going to make sure that I don’t just keep in touch through Christmas cards alone! Sorry, mate.
23rd December 2008
Julia Ford
I just wanted to say how touched I have been by the wonderful tributes to Steve. I have cried my eyes out and laughed too at some of the comments!
He was the kindest, most generous and patient husband and father I could ever have wished to meet and I feel so privileged to have shared 15 wonderful years with him. His zest for life was infectious and I have so many precious memories of our times together.
His brothers, Paul and Mike, who both live in Germany, are going to scatter his ashes for me on top of one of the beautiful German mountains we climbed on our many walking holidays! The mountains had a magical effect on Steve and he would spend many moments sitting quietly, just taking in the scenery and beauty of the mountains and I felt that this is where his final resting place should be.
Remember him for the amazing man he was. He will be forever be in our hearts.
Love and best wishes
Julia x
