Kent Monteith Forbes

Kent Monteith Forbes obituary, Blockton, IA

Kent Monteith Forbes

Kent Forbes Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 23, 2025.
Kent Forbes, of Blockton, Iowa passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on May 18, 2025. He was surrounded by family.

Born on October 10, 1940 in Des Moines, Iowa to Corvin and Grace Forbes, Kent graduated from East High School, Simpson College, and Drake University. He worked for the City of Des Moines until retirement.

Kent was a voracious reader & learner. He was a history buff, and supported his children wholeheartedly throughout their entire lives. He left this world continuing to give his children his famous "Wise Words of Wisdom." They will miss his phone calls reminding them to "let your faucets drip so your pipes don't freeze." and his calls asking them how much rain or snow they had gotten after storms.

Kent was a firm believer in Jesus Christ. He believed that true purpose comes from living with intention and compassion, not from personal achievements alone. He often shared that what matters most is how you treat others and the kind of person you become along the way.

Kent will be remembered for his warm heart, steady presence, and the meaningful relationships he built with everyone around him. His legacy lives on through the family and friends who knew and loved him.

Kent was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Steven Forbes; and his brothers, Wendell and Larry Forbes.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Forbes; daughters Becky Clark (Doug) & Amy Forbes; Lisa Johnston; Scott Johnston; and Jamey Johnston.

He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Lexi Clark, Carter Clark, Riley Bacon (Holly), Connor Bacon, Tyler Johnston, and Chazz Johnston.

Graveside services will be held at Glendale Cemetery on Thursday, May 29 at 1:30pm. (4909 University Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50311)

Reception immediately following service at Valley Junction Activity Center, 217 5th St., WDM.

Memorials are preferred to: Blockton Christian Church, 403 Stevenson St., Blockton, IA 50836

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Kent Forbes's Guest Book

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May 28, 2025

Amina Wardak O'Farrell planted trees.

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes posted to the memorial.

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes posted to the memorial.

Single Memorial Tree

Amina Wardak O'Farrell

Planted Trees

Amy Forbes

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes

May 27, 2025

Tray Thomas

May 25, 2025

One of the kindest men that I have ever known. "What matters most is how you treat others and the kind of person you become along the way. " I love that quote from his obituary. He live that belief fully and became a man we all should emulate.

I am so sorry you have to be without him for a time.

Lonnie & Dorothy Thurman

May 25, 2025

Amy and Becky, we are so sorry for your loss. We remember your dad fondly. Living next door to your family for 15 years was great! Your dad was always willing to offer his help. Lonnie was working out of town most week nights and your dad was who I called if I heard a suspicious noise. He usually reported that it was a raccoon! Kent was kind and humble and served our community well for many years as our mayor. With our sympathy, Lonnie and Dorothy

Tracy Spackman

May 24, 2025

So sorry to hear about Kent´s passing. He had a big heart and a gentle soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Karen

Paul E. Rider, Sr.

May 24, 2025

Kent was a great friend starting in our early days at Cattell Elementary School. He and I were desk mates during our days at Cattell, and we became close friends. Kent and I ended up at Des Moines East High and graduated in the class of 1958. We always enjoyed our get togethers at class reunions and shared many memories. Since both he and I had served as mayor in our respective cities, we could share the interesting stories related to that experience. I valued his friendship and when were younger, he seemed like another brother. He was easy to be around, and he made my days at Cattell much brighter. Our class watched the inauguration of President Eisenhower on January 20, 1952, at his house because the Forbes family had one of the first television sets in the neighborhood at that time. He made a difference, and I will miss him.

Paul Rider
Cedar Falls, IA

Lanae Price

May 24, 2025

I will never forget our monthly dinners. We looked forward to spending time with Karen and Kent. It was fun trying different restaurants and cuisine.

Kay and Dave Kofoed

May 24, 2025

Kent liked a celebration. I remember he selected wine at the kids college graduation after lunch a few years ago! Sorry for your loss and ours.

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Sign Kent Forbes's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 28, 2025

Amina Wardak O'Farrell planted trees.

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes posted to the memorial.

May 28, 2025

Amy Forbes posted to the memorial.