Donnie Lee Forester

Donnie Lee Forester, of Rolla, MO, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the age of 82.
He was born on January 27, 1943 in Arlington Township, MO to the late Amos and Rosetta (Smith) Forester. On June 17, 1967, he married Evelyn (Manes) Forester in Rolla, MO.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by the love of his life, Evelyn; four brothers, Junior Amos, Billy Ray, Paul "Sax" Woodrow, and Raymond Thomas "Bogie"; and two sisters, Betty Emmogene and Sharon Kay.
Donnie was a proud member of the Southern Cherokee Tribe and earned a 50-year pin through Laborers' International Union of North America, Local 840. This reflected his strong work ethic and dedication to his trade. He spent many enjoyable hours playing lead guitar with George Humphrey and the Big River Band. Donnie was also a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church where he enjoyed playing music for the Lord with Pastor Tim. Many people knew him as "Spoonbill" through the local CB club.
Donnie cherished spending time with his family. His wife, Evelyn, was his world, his children were his legacy, his grandchildren were his pride, and most recently, his two great-granddaughters were the light of his life.
Donnie was a man who deeply loved being outdoors. He spent countless hours hunting, fishing, gardening, and riding his 4-wheeler, always appreciating nature's beauty.
He never met a stranger. He loved talking and visiting with friends.
Donnie will be sadly missed by his surviving family which includes: his three children, Donald and wife, Gayle of Plad, MO, Paula Pelikan and husband, James of Doolittle, MO, and Vicky Giacolone and husband, Anthony of Doolittle, MO; five grandchildren, Brittany Zigrye and husband, Kurt, Cody Forester, Tanner Forester, Donavin Giacolone, and Amber Carrington and husband, Ryan; and two great-grandchildren, London Zigrye and Adalyn Zigrye. Donnie is also survived by his brother, Dale William and wife, Susan of Newburg, MO.
A funeral service for Donnie L. Forester will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. Interment will follow in the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Doolittle, MO. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions in Donnie's name are suggested to Mt. Olive Baptist Church.