Paul W. Forquer

Paul W. Forquer, age 74 of Canton, passed away Sunday, March 1, 2026. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania to the late Harold and Louise (née Vines) Forquer, he was also preceded in death by his brother Timothy Forquer. Paul was a graduate of Cathedral Prep School and Gannon University in Erie. He was an electrical engineer and member of IEEE, where he was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. He was proud of his Irish heritage. Paul is survived by his wife of 52 years Melanie J. (née McLaughlin) Forquer, children Isaac (Kerri) Forquer, Joshua Forquer, Maggie (Michael) Skultety, brothers Herk (Annie), Russell (Susan), Charles (Julie) Forquer, Grandfather to Anna, Liam, and Finn, and many nieces, nephews, and foreign exchange students.

Paul was a licensed electrical engineer with a career spent with Control Power Corporation and later Powell Electric - after his retirement he continued freelancing - both specializing in power management in light rail settings. His work took him all over the world from the Suez Canal in Egypt to several projects in China.

Both Paul and Melanie had a passion for sharing their home with the world. They hosted exchange students from four continents and countless other occasional visitors. They also hosted the Ulster Project for 10 years, bringing teens from the greater Belfast, Northern Ireland area to come and live in the Canton/Massillon area to promote peace and understanding in Northern Ireland.

Paul loved to travel - especially with his family. By far his favorite destination was Ireland. Paul and Melanie took their entire family to the Emerald Isle on three separate occasions - most recently this past summer visiting Dublin and County Kerry.

Paul was loved by all who came to know him. His wit, sense of humor, and love of “figuring things out” were what defined his infectious personality.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, March 15, 2025 from 1 to 4 pm at the Rossi Family Funeral Home. Reception to follow at the family home.

To honor and recognize Paul’s deep devotion to his many rescue pets, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a local rescue.