Lawrence E. Forrest

Aug 13th, 1939 – Feb 28th, 2023

Larry passed away peacefully at his home on early Tuesday morning after a 3 year struggle with Leukemia. Larry was the second oldest of the six Forrest boys from Hills St, East Hartford. His parents Walter and Sophie were active in town politics and East Hartford Grange. He was pre-deceased by Walter, his oldest brother. Larry graduated from what is now Eastern Connecticut State University with a teaching degree. He went on to receive a Master's degree from Antioch College in Ohio. He taught middle school science beginning in Ashford, then Lebanon, and lastly for the majority of his 36-year career at Sage Park in Windsor. Larry leaves Jo-Ann (Spiller) his wife of nearly 60 years. His three children Scot Forrest – spouse Deb, Stacy – spouse Gary LaClair, Roxanne – spouse Dean Houle and 9 Grandchildren Joshua, Jeremy – fiancée Audrey, Branden, Samantha – fiancé CJ, Justin, Maddi, Brianna, Anna, Hayley. His sister in law Helene (Walter) of East Hartford, James & Elizabeth "Betty" of Lebanon. Frank & Elizabeth "Betsy" of East Hartford. Robert "Bob" & Elizabeth "Liz" of Nevada. Thomas & Jan of Waterbury, along with Cousin Jerry Masco & Jerry Demuth. Brother in law Alan & Lucretia "Cre" Spiller of Arizona; Sister in law Terri & James Patella of South Windsor, and Many Nieces, Nephews & Cousins. Larry was an active member of St Matthew's Parish of Tolland-from its inception. Larry & Jo-Ann were among the first members of the choir and they cantered as a couple at masses for over 30 years. He & another member started the folk group, which sang at the Civic Center in Hartford. Larry & Jo-Ann were Chairmen of Couple to Couple for the deanery program for engaged couples being married in the church for 40 years. They developed the 1st family weekend in CT along with the Gebhart's of Enfield. They were also part of "Marriage Encounter" for many years. Larry was an avid gardener and horticulturist, he loved his orchids & their home was surrounded by flowers. He was known for his hard work and willingness to lend a hand to anyone with a problem. He enjoyed being physically active with biking, splitting wood, hiking, tennis, (skiing) water & cross country. He and his family were long time members of Crystal Lake Beach & Boat Club. He loved spending time at the Forrest family cabin in Vermont, with his immediate and extended family. In addition, he loved spending time watching his grandkids at their many sports & activities. As well as countless trips to Old Sturbridge Village; Mystic Sea Port and umpteen ice cream shops. We would like to thank the Hospice nurses and most especially Michelle his care giver. Calling hours will be on Sunday, March 5, 2023 from 12 pm – 4 pm at Tolland Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Merrow Road, Tolland, CT 06084. A Celebration of Larry's life will be held on Monday, March 6, 2023 at 10am at St. Matthew Church, 111 Tolland Green, Tolland, CT 06084 with reception to immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to https://moyamoya-foundation.org. For online condolences or directions please visit www.pietrasfuneralhome.com.