Julie Ann Ford, 83, of Superior, Wis., passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12, 2026. Born August 14, 1942, in Superior, to Evelyn (Tallakson) and Lester Olson, she spent her childhood years living in South Range, Wis and spending time during the summers at Lyman Lake. She graduated from East High School 1960 and the Wisconsin State University in Superior (now UWS) with a degree in Medical Technology in 1964. In the fall of 1964, she married her high school sweetheart, Richard Ford, in South Range, Wis. Together they shared more than 50 years of marriage before Richard's passing in 2017.

She began her career in Duluth at St. Luke’s Hospital, worked at Luther Hospital in Eau Claire, and retired after many years in the lab at Superior Memorial Hospital. She was civic minded and stayed busy after retirement as an election judge and as a member of Philanthropic Education Organization (PEO) in Superior where she held many officer positions, during her many years with the organization, including serving as president.

After many years as a member of Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Julie became a member of Cathedral of Christ the King in 2020, where her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. Above all else, Julie cherished her family. She was a proud and loving mother to her two daughters, Heather (Mark) Emmel and Heidi (Brad) Briney. Nothing brought her greater joy and happiness than watching her family grow and spending time with her four beloved grandchildren: Benjamin, Elizabeth, Alden and Cole. Whether gathered for holidays, celebrations, or simple family visits, Julie treasured every moment spent with those she loved most.

A talented and passionate quilter, Julie especially enjoyed making quilts for her family and friends, stitching each one with care, patience, and love. These cherished gifts will be lasting reminders of her warmth, generosity, and the special bond she shared with her loved ones. She was also an excellent cook and baker, enthusiastically making treats for everyone. Her pumpkin bars and chicken salad were family favorites.

Julie also embraced life's adventures with optimism and enthusiasm. She loved traveling – driving, cruising, and flying to many destinations worldwide - and discovering new places and cultures. One of the most meaningful experiences of her life was visiting the Holy Land, a journey she treasured deeply. Even as her health declined in recent years, she often reflected on her travels and the joy they brought her.

Julie will be remembered for her kind heart, adventurous spirit, and infectious smile (lovingly known as the “Julie Smile”) that could brighten any room. She had a gift for making others feel welcomed and loved, and her gentle presence touched the lives of many.

Though Julie's presence will be deeply missed, her love, laughter, and sense of adventure will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever. Her greatest legacy is the loving family she nurtured and the enduring values of kindness, faith, and love that she passed on to future generations.

She is survived by her daughters and her four cherished grandchildren, her brother, Bruce (Elinor) Olson and her sister, Esther (Don) Anderson and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of Christ the King Catholic Church, 1111 Belknap Street, Superior, Wisconsin, with Fr. Andrew Ricci officiating. Inurnment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Luke’s Foundation or the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra.