Gerald P. Forest, of Ashland, known affectionately as Jerry and Pépé, passed away at his home peacefully surrounded by his family on May 16, 2012 at the age of 78. He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 20 years, Gail (Tatelbaum) Forest. He was a devoted father to Elisabeth Forest and her husband Kyle Ward, Susanne Beatty and her husband Kevin and Kristin and the late Stephen Cullinane. He was also a wonderful stepfather to Stacey, James, Lesley and Melissa Shore. He was an incredible Pépé to 7 grandchildren – Jocelyn, Gabrielle, Alexa, Jacob, Hayley, Jordana and Nathan. He is also survived by 4 siblings and their spouses – Diana Azevedo, Albert and Rovina Forest, Louise and Hank Sawoska and George Forest.
Jerry was born in Cambridge to Leandre and Lita Forest and was a longtime resident of Natick before moving to Ashland. He graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology and served for 4 years in the United States Marine Corps. He worked as a draftsman at Haley and Ward, Inc in Waltham for more than 40 years.
Jerry was fond of many things including trains, history, and spending time with his family and friends.
Calling hours will be held in the John Everett and Sons Funeral Home, 4 Park Street (at Natick Common) Natick on Saturday from 2-5 PM with a brief Memorial Service of Remembrance and military honors at 5 PM. Burial will be private at a later date. His wife will be sitting Shiva (Memorial Observance) in the family home on Saturday evening and from 2-7pm on Sunday and Monday.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to Tufts Medical Center Trust, Pulmonary Hypertension Center, 800 Washington St, Box 231, Boston MA 02111 or the charity of one’s choice.