Forest Eugene Walz's Obituary
Forest Eugene Walz, 95, peacefully passed away on his 95th birthday, Saturday, January 10th, 2026. Forest’s family and friends will celebrate his life at Emmanuel United Church of Christ on Thursday, January 15th, 2026, with a visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. and his funeral service immediately following. Pastor Cheryl Kaiser will officiate. Burial will take place, following the service, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Manchester with Military Honors.
Forest was born on January 10th, 1931, in his childhood home in Norvell Township. He was the oldest amongst 4 sisters. Growing up, Forest worked from his home at M-52 and Pleasant Lake Road, using Ford Model A frames to build farm wagons, pumping gas, and doing a variety of mechanic work. In 1956, Forest married the love of his life, Joan Huber, was drafted into the US Army, and sent to Anchorage, Alaska. It was in Anchorage that he met Red Wood, who would introduce Forest into the carnival business.
After his time in the Army, Forest spent time working as a mechanic for Tirb Chevrolet in 1965, before acquiring a brand-new double Ferris wheel in New York state, which led to 26 successful years in the carnival business. After this time, Forest sold his carnival equipment and began buying, selling, and repairing lawn mowers and other small engines in the early 90s. He spent his retirement caring for his wife, Joan, and enjoying his grandchildren.
Forest will be missed by his son Jonathan (Carrie) Walz; his sister, Joan Rowland; his four grandchildren, Jessica (Alec) Kaker, Anna Walz, Olivia Walz, and Jackson Walz; as well as his great-grandson, Beau Kaker; his brother-in-law, Stan Kemner; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Joan, and his 3 sisters, Carol (Jack) Saunders, MaryAnn (Bob) Hyde, and Elaine Kemner.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Emmanuel Church in Manchester, MI. Please leave a message of comfort for Forest’s family or sign his guestbook at https://www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.
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