Photo courtesy of Waters Funeral Home - Concord
Concord, New Hampshire
David A. Forest, 82, of Contoocook, NH, passed away peacefully on November 4 under hospice care at home, per his wishes.
David was born in Concord, NH in 1942, the son of the late Albert and Arline (LaPlante) Forest. He graduated from St. John’s High in 1961 and later graduated from Wentworth Institute and Northeastern University with degrees in Electrical Engineering and was a lifetime member of ASEE.
David worked for Sanders/BAE for many years and had a rewarding career as a professor at UNH Durham and Manchester for over 35 years. He also enjoyed a sabbatical at McGill University in Montreal. David lived a life of service, sharing his time and talents in his church, the Boy Scouts, the Hopkinton Lion’s Club, the Granite State Symphony Orchestra, various academic advisory boards, and other organizations.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lorraine, and his children James Forest of North Canton, OH; Kathleen Forest (James Oliver) of Arlington, VA; Christine (Michael) Schelble of Brunswick, ME; and Karen (Michel) Florentino of Contoocook, NH; and his grandchildren, Matthew Chamberlain, Tatton Oliver, Thomas Chamberlain, Nathan Schelble, and Jacob Schelble, as well as numerous close friends, including his “brother” Neal (Barbara) Kleinberg of Ashland, MA.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, November 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Waters Funeral Home, 50 South Main Street, Concord.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, November 8 at 11:00 a.m at St. Theresa’s Church, 185 Old W. Hopkinton Road, Henniker, followed by a light luncheon at the church.
Burial will take place at 2:30 at Blossom Hill Cemetery in Concord.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the American Red Cross (Blood Services)or the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation . The family also encourages anyone able to donate blood.
Read MoreI only just today learned that David had been ill and passed away. We worked together at UNH in Manchester; I left there about eight years ago. But when I was there, it was always a pleasure talking have conversations, although brief, in the hallways. I wish his wife and children comfort in the love he had for them.
Ellen Ruggles
July 17, 2025 | New Boston, NH | Acquaintance
David was my only first cousin on my father's side of a very big family. I always enjoyed visiting with him growing up and with Al and Arline who were very kind and loving. David's success was always a source of pride in our family though I remember that he always had wanted to be a pilot but was hindered by his eyesight. No matter, he excelled in so many other ways. I feel his loss.
David LaPlante
January 03, 2025 | Selkirk, NY | Family
Dave was one of my instructors in undergraduate school. Years later he encouraged me to teach part time which I did for many years.
Not only was Dave my favorite instructor through my many years of education but he was my friend.
I loved Dave’s funny side. He really had a great sense of humor.
I’m so sad to hear of Dave’s passing.
I will miss him dearly and will think of him often.
I just saw a family post today. I’m sorry I missed...
donald cochrane
December 08, 2024 | BARRINGTON, NH | Friend
Lorraine, I was saddened to hear of David's passing. Even though I only knew him for a short time -at Physical Therapy, I had many sweet conversations with him and could tell he was a loving, kind person. I am sorry for your loss. Yu and your family must have many happy memories to support you all. Let them make you smile and comfort you.
Blessings.
Kathie Weisiger
November 24, 2024 | Pembroke, NH | Acquaintance
For the family of David Forest my deepest sympathies. I only know David through his daughters in a round about way. I do understand this is a great family and supportive of each other. This is a challenging time in one's life to lose your parent(s). It will make you stronger and help you know that your time spent with family is a cherished moment. Well wishes for whole family and friends affected by the lost of David.
Debbra DuMoulin
November 13, 2024 | Baltimore, MD | Acquaintance
Dear Kathy and the Forest family
Dave was such a wonderful man and father I have so many wonderful memories of him and your family in Montreal, and in Contoocook. I am so sorry for your loss.
Shirley Chanyi
November 10, 2024 | Mississauga, ON | Friend
Lorraine, I am sorry to hear this. He was such fighter. It was a pleasure to know him. I wish you all the best. May your memories bring you some comfort during this time. Hugs
Chrissy Stevens
November 09, 2024 | Other
Lorraine I´m so sorry to hear of Dave´s passing. All my love to you and your family. Kathy
Kathleen Acox Nies
November 08, 2024 | Family
Dear Lorraine, Karen and family, Dave was a wonderful man. So kind and thoughtful. We will miss him and his laugh at meetings.
Laurie &Rick Shepard
November 08, 2024 | Friend
