Rose Forthman

Rose L. " Lynn" Forthman Passed away on September 23, 2010 from complications arising from an automobile accident that occurred on the August 18, 2010. Lynn was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania on December 18, 1922. Following some east coast work endeavors in the Washington D.C. area, she and some friends moved to California. Lynn met her husband, Robert, at the Unitarian Church. They were married in San Diego California in 1950. Following their marriage, they then moved to the Bay Area and reside there ever since. Lynn and Bob barely got out of the 1991 Oakland Fire Storm. They lost their home in that fire but through their dedication to one another, they persevered in rebuilding their home in the Oakland Hills. Lynn was a devoted teacher for thirty-five years before retiring from the West Contra Costa School District. After retiring she became a volunteer for the next 20 years with HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) serving as a registered counselor, providing legal aid to seniors. During this period, she was out stationed with Over 60 Health Clinic in Berkeley. In her counseling position, she was extremely helpful to low income elderly clients as well as to members of the staff. Prior to her death, Lynn was looking forward to volunteering with the newly launched Ashby Village-a neighbor helping neighbor program that assists the elderly to live in their homes and communities rather than a skilled nursing facility. Lynn is survived by her husband, Bob, and several cousins on both coasts- Martha and Stuart Bindermen, in Maryland, Sue and Fred Freed, in Florida, David and July Wolfman, in Pennsylvania and Joan Winston, in Oregon. Lynn greatest satisfactions in life was her personal and professional long term relationships with family and friends to whom she provided an empathetic and supportive environment. Other areas that she devoted her concerns and sensitivities were for homeless animals, particularly feral cats. A memorial is being planned in early November at Northbrae Community Church 941 The Alameda. (510)526-3805. Donations may be made in Memory of Lynn to Ashby Village 2330 Durant Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704 or Lifelong Medical Care, 1860 Alcatraz Avenue, Berkeley, CA.