Paul J. Forkus

Atkinson, NH: Paul J. "Bunny" Forkus, 87 a resident of Atkinson since 2008, died December 22, 2025, at Lawrence General Hospital, following a brief illness. Born and raised and educated in Clifton, NJ, he was the son of the late Paul and Wilma (Grande) Forkus. He enlisted into the U.S Navy and served as a Boiler Technician Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the USS Harwood and the USS Yellowstone. He was honorably discharged in 1959 and a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal.

Paul was employed as a truck driver for most of his working career as a member of the Teamsters Union Local 653 and was a "jack of all trades" who could fix just about anything. He was a resident of Rockland, Massachusetts for many years where he raised his family. As a young man he played baseball and he was an accomplished guitarist and member of a band. He was an avid reader and enjoyed camping with his family, gardening, cooking and hosting parties at his home. Later in his life he enjoyed trips to Disney World with his wife, Marie and family and taking vacation cruises. After retiring he and his wife Marie relocated to Davenport, Florida to enjoy the warmer winter weather, until 2008, when they moved to Atkinson to be able to spend time with their children and grandchildren.

Paul will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of sixty-six years, Marie "Rio" (Thomas) Forkus, a son and daughter-in-law, Paul J. and Renee Forkus of Atkinson, a daughter and son-in-law, Deborah and Brad Valente of Lakeville, MA, his daughter-in-law, Susan Forkus of Bryant Pond, Maine, eleven grandchildren, eight great- grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his son Michael "Donny" Forkus, and two sisters, Gail and Cookie.

Private family services will take place in Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home of Plaistow, NH Burial with Military Honors will be held in Maplewood Cemetery, Plaistow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels, Rockingham County, NH. Please click on this link to bring you to donation page:

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