Bert DeForest

Bertrand O. DeForest
Bertrand O. (Bert) DeForest, beloved husband of Stephaine (Fay) Santa DeForest, passed onto his eternal reward December 5, 2021 at Waterbury Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the cherished younger son of Bertrand and Ella Stickney DeForest.
Bert grew up in Derby and graduated from Bullard Havens Technical School where he was an outstanding star and leader of their basketball team. Bert served his country as a regular enlisted man in the U.S. Air Force working as a mechanic stationed in Iceland. Upon his return he began his 30-year career as a Repair Department Supervisor for the Southern New England Telephone Company. He subsequently founded and operated DeForest telephone service.
In addition to his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Fay, his survivors include his daughters Ellen DeForest and Ruth Jachyra of San Diego; Nancy DeForest of Guilford and Natalie (Jerry) Sterrett of Bonita Springs, Florida. Also, his sons Bertrand (Anne) of Amherst, NH and Walter (Nicole) of Edinburgh, Scotland.
Additionally, his Russell Family stepchildren Ned (Theresa) of New York City, Peter (Stephanie) of Easton, Tim (Bobbie Sue) of Newtown, George of Fairfield and Alison Macadam (Chris) of Old Lyme.
Bert's grandchildren include Bert, Ben and Bloom DeForest, Justine LaVoie and Kelly Brawley. His step grandchildren are Harris, Spencer, Judge, Walker, Mila, Madelyn, and Charlotte Russell as well as, Peter, Owen, Ford, and Graham Macadam. And, to Bert's great delight, his great grandchildren, Bela and Bert DeForest.
He is also survived by his brother Bob of Concord, NH as well as his nephew John and nieces Meg Sterrett and Susan DeForest. Bert was predeceased by his first wife Corrine Grady DeForest.
Bert's Heritage Village Life was a whirlwind of activity as he threw himself into their Photography Club, The Focus Group and the Garden Club. He did all of that all while being an outstanding friend, confidant, supporter and companion to all who had the pleasure to have known him. His very presence was a special blessing to us all but most particularly so to Fay.
Bert's memorial service will be held at the South Britain Congregational Church, 693 South Britain Road, Southbury at 10:30 on Saturday December 18th. Interment will be private and at a later date by his family.
Those who wish to offer a charitable donation in Bert's memory are welcome to contribute to the ALS Association (www.ALS.org) at 4 Oxford Road, Unit 4 E, Milford 06460