Robert C. Forney

Jefferson Memorial Cemetery Funeral Home

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | January 02, 2024

Robert C. Forney, age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 29, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born on July 3, 1937, in McKeesport, the son of the late Forrest E. and Hazel I. (Bowles) Forney.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Nancy J. (Spahr) Forney; his children, Robert D. (Nora) Forney, Eileen S. (the late, Terry Flowers) Westwater and Judith A. (Scott) Crawford; his grandchildren, Annie (Eric), Jesse (Meghann), Erica, DeAnna (Daniel), William (Jessica), David (Sarah), Jamie, and Wyatt (Lily); 8 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his three siblings, Doris, Billy, and Marilyn.

Robert grew up in McKeesport attending local schools where he laid the foundation for his love for sports. His love for athletics led him to Youngstown State for a year of college where he continued to play football.

Embarking on a career at Duquesne Light, Robert began as a lineman and, with dedication and leadership, retired as a respected foreman. His work ethic was only matched by his commitment to his community, where he served as the assistant chief for the Liberty Boro EMS and the Chief of the Liberty Boro Fire Co. Robert's leadership extended to his role as Director of Chanters for AL-O-Mon Forest #138 and his active membership in Masonic Lodge #731 and the Tall Cedars of Lebanon.

He was also an integral part of the Liberty Boro Presbyterian Church and the Central Highlands Methodist Church, sharing his musical talents as the church organist and through signing with the choir. While living in Florida, Robert and his wife, Nancy, were members of St. Cloud Presbyterian Church, where he was a soloist with the chorus.

Robert's interests were as diverse as they were engaging. He was a board member for Slippery Rock Campground, where he indulged his love for the outdoors and camping. His athletic background found new expressions in softball, duck pin bowling, and dart ball. A history buff, Robert enjoyed immersing himself in Civil War documentaries, and his love for square dancing, singing, and puzzles revealed a man who embraced joy in various forms. Not one to sit still, he also found pleasure in gardening, picking oranges during his time in Florida, and pursuing the perfect swing in golf.

Those who knew Robert will remember him as a man who lived life passionately, with a zest that was both inspiring and infectious. His selfless nature was evident in every role he undertook, whether maintaining the safety and well-being of his community or simply sharing a song on the piano or organ. His vibrant spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts and memories of those fortunate enough to have known him.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at Liberty Borough Presbyterian Church, 900 Elizabeth Street, St, McKeesport, PA 15133. Burial will follow at Jefferson Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial donations in honor of Robert be made to Dan Schall Ministries * P.O. Box 272 * Zelienople, PA 16063.

To leave online condolences please visit www.jeffersonmemorial.com

Originally published January 02, 2024.

Other deaths:
"Helen E. Lasica" || "Thayer E. Marody"