John Anthony Forest

It is with great sadness that the family of John Anthony Forest announces his passing on Friday, August 11, 2023, at the age of 63. John was a loving father and grandfather, who enjoyed hiking, golfing, traveling, and in his later years found a passion for dancing. John was born in Englewood, New Jersey in 1960 and moved to Northern California at 2 years old, then down to Visalia at the age of 10. John, his sister Leanne, and his parents, Al and Rovena Forest went on many camping trips around California. This is where John's joy of the mountains was solidified, which he carried with him and shared with others for the rest of his life. John met Debra Marie Rosa on a date at a Fresno State football game, set up by his sister Leanne. He quickly knew that he had found the love of his life. Married in September of 1987, the honeymoon was the move to Georgia for John's job. Although away from family, John and Debbie started to build their life: first with a home and next with the birth of their daughter, Sarah. The move back to Visalia was a relief for their families. He continued his work for Kawneer until his retirement in 2021. He spent these years playing golf, hiking the Sierras, camping with family, and watching Sarah play sports. John and Debbie started traveling the world when their daughter went to college, including trips to China, Russia, Australia, and all around Europe. In June of 2018, Debbie passed away after a long battle with cancer, and only 8 weeks later, John lost his father too. However, John found solace in spending time with his daughter and new grandchildren. 2019 saw John taking new risks to enjoy life. He continued his love of the mountains with hiking trips and started golfing again. He also started dancing with a new group of friends. The devastating news that came this year was unbelievable to all. As John fought against his disease he was still able to find moments to dance and be with his grandchildren. John passed away peacefully with his family around him. John will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Sarah Forest George, along with his three grandchildren, Cal, Ripley, and Walden George. John is also survived by his mother, Rovena Forest, and his sister, Leanne Mokros. John touched the lives of many other family and friends who will remember him fondly. A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday, September 2, from 2-4 pm at Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia, CA 93277. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the American Lung Association in his honor. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

John Anthony Forest

April 12, 1960 - August 11, 2023