Peter Ford death: Parramatta Eels legend remembers 1980s workhorse

A mobile and committed player and trainer who gave 100 per cent in every game, Peter Ford, a member of the Parramatta 1986 side which went on to win the premiership, has died.

Parramatta old boys (L-R): Bob O'Reilly, Peter Ford and Peter Wynn CONFIRM

Former Parramatta forward Peter Ford has died. He was 63.

Ford, who played 58 first-grade matches for the Eels, died in his home town of Gerringong following a battle with cancer.

Nicknamed Falcon, Ford played at Parramatta between 1985 and 1988, playing in two NSWRL finals against Balmain and Canterbury in his debut season, and 12 games in the Eels’ 1986 premiership-winning season. He also represented Country five times.

Ford was also a member of Parramatta’s victorious 1986 midweek National Panasonic Cup side.

“Peter was a very mobile and committed player and trainer who gave 100 per cent in every game he played,” former Eels teammate Peter Wynn said. “He was part of that 1986 side which won the premiership.

Parramatta old boys (L-R): Bob O'Reilly, Peter Ford and Peter Wynn.

“Falcon was a great bloke who was friends with all his teammates. He would travel up from Gerringong to train and play with (other south coast-based players) Mick Cronin and Ronny Quinn.

“It’s a very sad day for the Parramatta family.”

In a statement, the Eels said they were “saddened to learn of the passing of Eel No. 440”.

Ford was a strong and hard-running lock and second rower who also played 68 reserve grade matches.

Ford played all his first-grade career under head coach John Monie.