He was born in Forest City to the late Ford and Goldia (Hovey) VanOrman on July 22, 1927. He married Alverne Marilyn Craig on November 20, 1949 in Armington. They were married forty-five years until her death on October 19, 1995. He later married Marilyn Smith Thompson on November 27, 2003. She preceded him in death on June 26, 2019.
He was also preceded in death by his two sons: David Marc and Richard Neal; one infant granddaughter, Jessica; two stepsons: Mark and Steve Thompson; as well as four siblings: Helen Montgomery, Wilbur VanOrman, Vera Cloyd, and Raymond VanOrman.
He is survived by his daughter-in-law Sarah vanOrman of Peoria, grandchildren Cydil (Nathan) Waggoner of Vlashaj, Albania, Jenny (Seth) Shaw of Bridgewater Corners, VT, Hannah vanOrman of Peoria, and Justin VanOrman of Forest City; great-grandchildren Elisona and Reni Waggoner and Tua and Pippa Shaw; step-grandchildren Jeff (Tracy) Thompson of Manito, Stacy (Jeff) Lawrence and great-granddaughter Sophia of Jacksonville, FL.
Forrest was active in civic and church groups throughout his life including: Forman Ambulance and Fire Department (13 years), Mason County 9-1-1 Board (11 years), Mason County Board of Review (35 years), Forman School Board (9 years), Forest City Community Church choir and board, Manito Community barbershop quartet, Forman Community Chorus, Mason County chorus, Optimist Club 1952-1985, Rotary Club, Mason County Farm Bureau, Mason County Irrigated Growers, and was a precinct committeeman for the Republican Party. He was a recipient of the Paul Harris award.
A third-generation farmer, Forrest farmed in Forest City from 1945-1995. His life demonstrated loyalty to family, pride in his profession, and dedication to serving his local community. His knowledge, wit, and engaging spirit endeared him to all.
Funeral services will be held at Forest City Community Church, at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, August 25, 2025, with visitation one hour prior to the services. Burial will follow the service at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, near Forest City. Rev. Dann Berker will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to Forest City Community Church. Online memorial messages may be left for the family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Maas-Hurley Funeral Home, in Manito, is in charge of arrangements.
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