Renowned physicist and educator Kenneth W. Ford has passed away at the age of 99 due to pneumonia. Ford, a key figure in the development of the hydrogen bomb, died on December 5, 2023, at the Foulkeways retirement community in Gwynedd, Pennsylvania. His illustrious career spanned research, education, and global scientific collaboration, earning him recognition among giants in the field.
Born on May 1, 1926, in West Palm Beach, Florida, Ford’s journey in physics began early. He earned a summa cum laude bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and completed his doctorate at Princeton University in 1953. At just 24 years old, he was recruited to work at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, contributing to the atomic research that led to the hydrogen bomb’s development, tested in 1952. Reflecting on his involvement, Ford stated, “I was told if we don’t do it, the Soviet Union will, and the world will become a much more dangerous place.”
His expertise in nuclear structure and particle physics placed him in the company of notable scientists, including Albert Einstein and Robert Oppenheimer. Throughout his career, Ford worked with many esteemed colleagues and contributed to numerous important scientific discussions and developments.
In 1983, Ford moved to Philadelphia to lead a startup biotech firm. He later joined the American Physical Society as an education officer in 1986 and became the executive director of the American Institute of Physics in 1987. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to education and outreach in the physical sciences, earning accolades for his transformative impact.
Ford’s tenure as president of the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology from 1975 to 1982 saw significant improvements in enrollment, faculty, and facilities. Michael Jackson, interim president of New Mexico Tech, praised Ford as “an accomplished researcher, scholar, and teacher,” emphasizing the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
Following his retirement from the AIP in 1993, Ford remained active as a consultant for the Packard Foundation and taught physics at local schools, including the Academy and Germantown Friends School. His dedication to education and science continued to inspire students and colleagues alike.
Ford was also known for his principled stance against the Vietnam War, which led him to publicly decline further involvement in secretive military projects after 1968. “It was a statement of principle,” he shared in an interview with The Inquirer in 2023.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ford enjoyed a rich personal life. He is survived by his son, Jason, along with 11 grandchildren and a great-grandson. He had a passion for flying, was an avid follower of the Philadelphia Eagles, and was known for his love of folk dancing and word games.
As the physics community mourns his passing, Ford’s contributions to science and education are celebrated. His research on particle scattering and nuclear transparency has been cited in hundreds of publications, illustrating his enduring influence in the field.
Services for Kenneth W. Ford will be held from 14:00 to 16:30 on January 24, 2024, at Foulkeways at Gwynedd, 1120 Meetinghouse Rd., Gwynedd, PA 19436. His legacy as a scientist, educator, and advocate for peace will continue to inspire future generations.
