Robert J. Forthman

Robert J. Forthman obituary, Madison, SD

Robert J. Forthman

Robert Forthman Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Willoughby Funeral Home and Cremation Options on Nov. 21, 2025.
Robert Forthman Obituary Robert (Bob) James Forthman passed away peacefully at home in Carthage, SD on June 5, 2024. A Graveside Celebration of Life will be 1:00 PM, Monday, June 10, 2024 at Pleasant View Cemetery, Carthage, SD. Robert was born on November 21, 1949 in DeSmet, SD to Robert John and Donna (Stevens) Forthman. He grew up on the family farm outside of Oldham, SD. He attended elementary school in Oldham until the family moved to Carthage. Bob graduated from Carthage High School in 1968. He was united in marriage to Sandra (Wells) on April 24, 1971 and from this union two children were born, daughter, Tracy and, son, Jeremy.
Bob spent his life farming, working cattle, riding horses, and spent several years managing the Cabaret in downtown Carthage. Many would say Bob was a permanent fixture in the bustling city of Carthage as it wasn't easy to talk him into leaving. He was a friend to all who visited him at his trusty bar stool in the Prairie Inn or Cabaret. Bob was described as one-of-a-kind and someone who would help anyone.
Survivors include daughter, Tracy (Tim) Mitzel; son Jeremy, four grandchildren Tyler and Tahia Mitzel; Taisley and Lawson Forthman all of Sioux Falls. One brother, Donald (Claire) Forthman of San Antonio, TX; one sister, Joyce (Brad) Harmon of Madison, SD; ten nieces and nephews; twelve great nieces and nephews; and too many friends to count.
Proceeded in death by his parents and two brothers Dennis and Daryl Forthman.
Services
Graveside Service
Monday
June 10, 2024
1:00 PM
Pleasant View Cemetery
42550 22nd St
Carthage, South Dakota 57323
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Robert, please visit our Tree Store.

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

How to support Robert's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Robert Forthman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Robert Forthman's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?