Joseph Willis Forist Sr.

November 24, 1931 - March 1, 2021

Joseph Willis Forist Sr. of Eaton Rapids passed away March 1, 2021 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 24, 1931 in Ionia, Michigan to the late George and Anna (Houseman) Forist. Joe was the second oldest of 8 siblings. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and retired as a spot welder from Oldsmobile after 33 1/2 years. He enjoyed hunting, playing cards, going to the casino and playing pool. Joe looked forward to spending time and creating many cherished memories with his family at the property near Grayling. He was the most amazing man you would have ever met and was a great story teller. He loved good jokes and here is one of his favorites, “Two old maids were sitting in the sand, one said to the other, I wish you were a man”. Joe’s heart was pure as gold and would help anyone he could and loved his family unconditionally. He was an exceptional man and will be missed tremendously by so many. He is survived by his brother Don (Lorretta) Forist and sons, George Forist, John (Patty) Forist, Cody (Debbie) Forist, Brian (Maryann) Brooks, David (Brenda) Forist, Donald (Michelle) Forist and Craig (Chris) Forist; 20 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by great grandson, JaKobey Samson; brothers, Jim, Bud, Jerry, George, Howard, Mike and sister Edith. A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 6, 2021, 1:00pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Roy Atherton, officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 11:00am until the time of the service at 1:00pm. Covid protocols requiring masks, social distancing and occupancy limitations will be observed. Interment will be at Deepdale Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be given in Joe’s name to be used according to the wishes of the family.