Ronald Forrest

Ron Forrest – A Life of Service, Family, and Adventure

Ron Forrest was born on June 22, 1946, in Kimberley, British Columbia, to Wilf and Nora Forrest. In 1955, his family relocated to Calgary, Alberta, and eventually settled on an acreage near Red Deer Lake. He attended high school at Henry Wise Wood and later embarked on a distinguished 34-year career with the Calgary Fire Department, beginning in 1967 and retiring as a Captain in 2001. Known for his leadership, mentorship, and camaraderie, Ron was a trusted colleague who shared his expertise in firefighting and mechanics, and was always ready with a meal for his crew.

Outside of his professional life, Ron was a devoted family man. He took great pride in his children, Steven and Kari, celebrating their achievements and creating lifelong memories through family vacations, ski trips, and summers at the cabin. His bond with his grandchildren—Logan, Reid, and Ella—was a cherished part of his later years, filled with love, laughter, and time spent together.

In 1997, Ron married Margaret “Maggie” Forrest (née Morrison), and together they built a life rich with travel, friendship, and shared experiences. They lived between High River, Alberta, and Hemet, California, during their snowbird years, and later spent time in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, where they embraced the local culture and language. Their travels spanned Europe, the United States, and Mexico.

Ron had a lifelong passion for sports, especially golf. He dedicated countless hours to practicing, building clubs, and coaching friends. As a marshal at D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club in Okotoks, Alberta, for over two decades, he was also an active member of the Men’s Senior League, where he earned numerous accolades. In recent years, he continued to play regularly at the Malanquin Club De Golf in San Miguel de Allende.

Ron passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at the age of 78, following a battle with glioblastoma. He is remembered by his wife Maggie, children Steven (Dion) and Kari, grandchildren Logan, Reid, and Ella, and siblings Doug, Dale, and Kelly-Lynn. His legacy lives on through his extended family and many close friends who were touched by his generosity, humor, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.