EDWARD FORGE

EDWARD FORGE 01/20/1932 - 08/15/2025 Edward J. Forge, affectionately known as Ed or Eddie, passed away peacefully with family at his side Friday, August 15, 2025, in Leavenworth, Kan. He was 93 years old. A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend, Ed's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him. He was born on the family farm January 20, 1932, in Leavenworth to Edward M. and Agnes Forge (Schrick), both who valued hard work. Ed attended Coffin School and then began his distinguished farming career in the Salt Creek Valley area. He was admired by many in "The Valley" for his faith, commitment and integrity. Farming is a passion a devoted and honorable way of life. It is an unwavering labor that is the foundation of life itself. Ed built on this foundation when he married his love, Juanita R. Kemmerle on May 19, 1951. Together they made their home and raised their family in Leavenworth. He cared for her for many years until her passing in 2011. Ed also made time for camping, fishing, playing cards, and drinking coffee with his buddies at Casey's. He was a member of the local Fraternal Order of Eagles #55 and was the vice president of Rural Water District #2. Ed loved spending time running up and down the road in his truck whether it was looking at other farms and crops or grabbing food at the store. Every tractor and implement dealer in NE Kansas knew Ed Forge. He is survived by his three children, Steve Forge of Lansing, Vicki Wells (Eric) of Leavenworth, and Misty Bull (Richard) of Lansing; seven grandchildren, Jason Gwartney (Rhonda), Justin Forge (Lisa), Lauren McNabb (Eric), Garrett Bull (Natalie), Evan Bull, Jacob Bull and Sam Bull; eight great-grandchildren, Kamari Wells, Luke Gwartney, Pierce Gwartney, Jackson Gwartney, Hannah McNabb, Ethan Forge, Kason Forge and Peyton Forge; twin sisters Deanna "Dee" Heintzelman and Darlene "Dar" Kleypas. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who he loved dearly. Ed was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 60 years; sister, Jean Redford; and daughter-in-law, Paula Forge. Visitation will be Friday, August 22, 2025, at R.L. Leintz Funeral Home from 5 to 8 p.m., beginning with praying the Rosary. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to VITAS Healthcare, Sacred Heart Kickapoo Church, or an organization of your choice that represents the life Ed served.