Ford Family and Foundation pay tribute to Peter Secchia

 Statement from the Ford Family and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation
Concerning the death of Peter Secchia
October 21, 2020
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We are deeply saddened by the loss of our great friend, Peter Secchia, and our hearts and prayers go out to Joan and their four children—Stephanie, Sandy, Charlie, and Mark. What a remarkable legacy Peter leaves behind. Whether he’s remembered as an entrepreneur rebuilding Grand Rapids, or as a philanthropist making life better for the people of Michigan, or as a counselor having the President’s ear, or as an ambassador bridging connections to Italy, Peter made things happen. He was bigger than life. Everything he did, he did with gusto. Just look at how he was devoted to his family, generous to his friends, fierce in his beliefs, and unwavering in his support for the causes he held dear.

Peter and our dad first met back in 1964, during one of our dad’s congressional campaigns, and it seems he’s been part of our family ever since. Dad and Mom treasured his playful sense of humor, good counsel, and abiding friendship; also the good-natured rivalry between a Spartan and a Wolverine. Our family will miss Peter. We will remember his generous spirit and be inspired by his determination to make everything he touched better than he found it.

Thank you, Peter, for letting us share in your wonderful life and journey.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

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• Watch Gerald R. Ford: A Test of Character featured on National Geographic, Executive Produced by Gerald R. Ford’s friend Peter Secchia
  • https://www.nationalgeographic.org/video/gerald-ford-a-test-of-character/
• Gerald R. Ford Oral History Project interview with Peter Secchia
  • https://geraldrfordfoundation.org/centennial/oralhistory/peter-secchia/
• Gerald R. Ford: A Test of Character additional resources
  • https://geraldrfordfoundation.org/gerald-r-ford-a-test-of-character/
• Peter Secchia remarks at the “Growing Up Grand” exhibit opening at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
  • https://geraldrfordfoundation.org/centennial/events/growing-up-grand-exhibit-tour/
  • (Peter’s remarks begin at 21:27 of event video)
• Peter Secchia remarks at the Mrs. Betty Ford statue unveiling event at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
  • https://geraldrfordfoundation.org/mrs-betty-ford-statue-unveiling-at-museum/
  • (Peter’s remarks begin at 20:11 of event video)

President Gerald R. Ford, with his friend Peter Secchia