Ford Presidential Foundation Mourns the Passing of Chairman Emeritus Martin J. Allen, Jr.
May 31, 2026
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation announces with deep sadness the passing of Chairman Emeritus Martin J. Allen, Jr., a devoted leader, trusted friend of President and Mrs. Ford, and a guiding force behind the Foundation for decades. He died on May 31, 2026 at age 90.
A native of Grand Rapids, Allen played a central role in shaping and strengthening the Foundation and advancing the legacy of Gerald R. Ford and Betty Ford. Serving as chairman from 1985 to 2005 and continuing afterward as chairman emeritus and a lifetime trustee, he helped guide the organization through years of growth, expanding its national reach while keeping its mission firmly rooted in the values President Ford championed—integrity, honesty, and public service.
Allen’s relationship with the Fords spanned decades and was built on genuine friendship and mutual respect. Marty Allen was proud to be a United States Navy veteran, like President Ford. He was a trusted supporter of the President’s work and remained deeply committed to preserving both President Ford’s public legacy and Mrs. Ford’s humanitarian impact. His leadership helped ensure that future generations would understand and appreciate the character and example set by the Ford family. For decades, Marty dedicated his time, energy, and wisdom to carrying those ideals forward. His guidance helped shape the Foundation into what it is today.
“Marty and his wife Sue were cherished friends of our parents,” said Mike and Steve Ford, on behalf of the Ford family. “Dad and mom so respected Marty’s leadership and service to his family, the Foundation, the community of West Michigan and beyond.”
“For many decades, Marty Allen faithfully served the family and foundation he loved. President and Mrs. Ford could always count on him. Well into his eighties, he was coming to our Ford Presidential Foundation offices every day. The staff loved him, and he returned their affection with wisdom, insight, coaching, and encouragement,” said Gleaves Whitney, executive director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
Beyond the Foundation, Allen was widely known throughout West Michigan for his extraordinary civic leadership and generosity. His career in banking and his involvement in numerous educational, charitable, and cultural organizations reflected a lifelong commitment to strengthening the Grand Rapids community he loved.
Allen also played a meaningful role in honoring President Ford personally, including serving as an honorary pallbearer at the President’s state funeral. Those who worked with him remember not only his leadership but also his warmth, loyalty, and unwavering belief in service to others.
The Ford Presidential Foundation extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Susan, and to the entire Allen family. His legacy will endure through the institution he helped build and the values he worked tirelessly to promote.
The Notre Dame Monogram Club honored former President Gerald R. Ford with an honorary monogram in October 1997. From left: Sue Allen, President Ford, and Marty Allen.
Trustees chat at the Foundation Annual Dinner Reception in Washington, DC on June 7, 2010. (L-R) Henry Kissinger, Danny Gaydou, Marty Allen, and Peter Secchia. (Photo Courtesy of Dr. Robert M. Humphries)
Trustees gather at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation annual board meeting in June 2018. From left: Steve Ford, Red Cavaney, Marty Allen, Mike Ford.