Obituary of J. David Forrester

J. David Forrester was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1967 to Patricia Anthony Forrester and John T. Forrester.  He died on June 5, 2018 at his home in Kamilche, Washington.

David spent most of his life in Washington State and graduated from Weatherwax High School in Aberdeen.  He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Science from the University of Puget Sound, his Teaching Certificate from St. Martin’s University, and his Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Seattle University.  He was a valued member of the Olympia School District for many years, having served over ten years as a School Counselor at Olympia High School.  David had also worked at New Market Vocational Skills Center as Dean of Students and as a Reading Specialist. 

His avocation and professional passions were in Education Technology and he immersed himself as a volunteer in this area. David served on committees with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Washington School Counselor Association, the Adobe Systems Education Leadership Program, and the Washington School Information Processing Cooperative.  He was a finalist for National School Counselor of the Year (ASCA).

And then there’s the David, “Dave,” who we will remember beyond his many professional accomplishments.  He was a husband, father, son, brother, friend and neighbor.  He wanted to help everyone do just about anything they dreamed of.  He took great pride in helping his children explore their talents in music and soccer, and he coached for the Black Hills Football Club.  He was a hiker, fisherman, boater, river-rafter, writer, musician, artist, and cook.  David reached the summit of Mt. Rainier when he was only 15, hiked through the Olympic Mountains on a solo vision quest, and could dig his limit of razor clams faster than anyone on the beach.

As a man of creativity and compassion, David also suffered from depression, which he battled fiercely for several years.  He ended his own life for reasons that only he will fully know. 

He is survived by his wife, Kari; daughter, Maya; and son, Rio, all of Kamilche.  He had an extensive network of relatives across the country and friends everywhere.   All are saddened and bewildered by his loss.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, June 25, 6:30 p.m. at the Olympia High School Performing Arts Center on 1302 North Street SE, Olympia, WA 98501. All whose lives he has touched are welcome to attend. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donating to an education fund established for David and Kari’s children, Maya and Rio Forrester.  Donations may be made through any Keybank branch.