Alan T. Forrester
October 23, 1935 – December 15, 2025
In accordance with his wishes there will be no visitation and the burial will be private. In his memory, the family
encourages you to perform a simple act of kindness for others or consider making a donation to a charity that is meaningful to you.
Obituary
Mr. Forrester died on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Kairos Dwelling Hospice at the age of 90. He was born in Saskatchewan and was a graduate of the University of Washington, a veteran of the U.S. Army, was employed by The Upjohn Company as a medical editor and later in volunteer work for Kairos Dwelling, K-Wings, and the Battle Creek VA Hospital. In 1962, he was married to the late Mary Sandra Peterson. He is survived by two daughters, Maurya Johnston, Karen (Curt) Finch, six grandchildren Katherine, Megan (Ian) and great-grandchild, Lydia, Thomas (Claire), John (Shelby), William, and Caroline, two sisters, Ethel ( Jim) English, Maggy (the late Earne) Onoferychuk; two sisters-in-law, Darlene Forrester and Matilda Forrester; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; son, Ian, two brothers, John and Lionel, and nephew Glen Forrester.
Gramps…. You will forever be in our memories and in our hearts. There will never be conversations about the Kwings family without yours included. We will miss you. Mark, Kindra, Jordyn and Ashtyn Vilneff
Alan, my wonderful big brother. You were loving, kind and generous. You were an outstanding example of the kind of person each of us should strive to be. You left to carry on your legacy two lovely daughters, five wonderful grandchildren and one great grandchild. You will not be forgotten. I was always very proud to be able to call you my brother. I loved you so much. Rest in peace and enjoy the Glory you are experiencing. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Your sister Ethel
I was fortunate to know Al (aka Gramps) while I worked for the K-Wings Hockey Club. Over the course of 12 years, Gramps did so much behind the scenes in the lockerroom. His wit and Scottish humor endeared himself to the players, coaches, and staff of the team. Being Scottish myself, we shared many laughs over his jokes and hockey-related stories that only a Canadian like Gramps could tell. He kept in touch with many players, trainers, and equipment staffers long after they no longer worked in Kalamazoo. I would occasionally meet up with Gramps for either breakfast or dinner and shared great memories. He touched many lives and lived a full life. I’ll raise a pint in true Scottish fashion to honor him and think about the times he left an lasting impression. Until we meet again, my friend.
Having known Alan for many years through St. Patrick’s Parish was a deeper honor than words can express. He was a dear friend, fellow acolyte at the altar, predecessor to my tenure as Senior Warden who taught me so much about kindness and generosity. I was never able to give the way he could, he gave with such grace, from the heart and tenderness. Always had a dry joke but, you had to wait for it, the difference between a joker and a wit! He was our chauffeur driving us from the church to our home where a lengthy reception ensued. Since there was a chance of rain, the Packard went home with Alan returning with bagpipes under his arm! Much music was played though, not a lot with pipes. That was almost 40 years ago and people still ask about the “Piper” at the reception! Alan meant so much to Sandy and me over the years, his name shall be ever in our hearts. “Leave, leave your well loved nest, Late swallow and fly away For hollowing heart and wearying wing”