Ted (Theodore) J. Forke
April 7, 1933 - February 11, 2021
Ted (Theodore) J. Forke, wonderful husband, father and accomplished businessman passed away February 11, 2021 in Lincoln, Nebraska at the age of 87. Ted was born in Lincoln, April 7, 1933, to Albert & Molly (Linke) Forke. He was a graduate of Lincoln High and went on to attend the University of Nebraska. He enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Fort Benning, GA. He returned to Lincoln after his Army discharge where he completed college and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Nebraska.
On August 3, 1954 he married Marlene B. Rees, and together they had 2 children, Kristen and Kent. After graduating from college he joined the family business, Forke Brother Auctioneers where he became a partner. He spent his entire career with Forke Brothers and retired in 1995 when Forke Brothers sold their company to Ritchie Brothers. Ted was active in Lincoln business by serving on the Boards of National Bank of Commerce, Nebraska Nature Conservancy and Security Mutual. He was also a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.
After his retirement, Ted and Marlene loved spending the majority of time with family in their home in Aspen, CO. Ted loved the Colorado mountains where he enjoyed his horses, hiking, skiing and volunteering as Forest Ranger with the US Forest Service. After Marlene's passing in 2013 Ted enjoyed the company of longtime friend Marilyn Maude and together they enjoyed traveling and building a home in the country.
Ted is preceded in death by his dear wife, Marlene, parents Albert & Molly, brother Don and several uncles, aunts and cousins.
Ted was cremated. There will be a memorial service or celebration of life at a later time when the weather is more favorable and Covid restrictions lessened. Memorial donations can be made to Nebraska Nature Conservancy, 1007 Leavenworth Street, Omaha, NE 68102 or donor's choice organization. Condolences online at Roperandsons.com
