Roger Arthur Forrest

Roger A. Forrest, of Greenfield, WI, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 10, 2025 at the age of 86. Roger was born on November 25, 1938 in Milwaukee, WI.
Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He cherished every moment he could spend at his cabin in Minocqua. Most of that time was spent working on projects that over 40 years turned a resort cabin into a comfortable retreat that came to life when family and friends visited. Watching The Great Outdoors would always bring out a laugh and stopping at the taffy store on the way out of town was always a tradition.
He was a dedicated father who would help his son deliver papers on the cold winter days and later worked side by side with him on projects to improve the cabin and Craig's rentals. He was always available for Vicki regardless of the ask and looked forward to her Sunday dinners, playing cards and spending time with his grandkids.
Roger was devoted to his grandkids never missing their birthdays, dance recitals, graduations and other activities. He taught them life "up north" by showing them how to hook a worm and even how to filet a fish. He was incredibly proud of each of them.
He was devoted to the birds, squirrels and rabbits that would frequent his back patio as he watched them through his kitchen window. Those were some of the best-fed birds and squirrels in Greenfield who are also mourning the loss of their friend. Roger was also a dog lover with two companions of his own and later in life having grand dogs (Jordy, Obi, Loki and Milo) who looked forward to his Sunday treats.
And above all, Roger was deeply devoted to his wife of 50 years, Merna. For the past 15 years, he visited her grave almost daily unless he was up north. As the season's changed, so did the flowers at Merna's gravesite. He kept Merna in his heart and the hearts of all of us as he would continue to sign every birthday card, anniversary card, and Christmas present from "Mom and Dad" or "Grandma and Grandpa".
Roger is survived by his son Craig (Susanne), and their son Brad; and his daughter Vicki (Tom) Esser, and their children Austin (Hannah) and expected baby girl, Parker (Rylee) and their son Carter, and Tatum Esser.
Preceded in death by his parents Lloyd and Esther Forrest; and his loving wife of 50 years, Merna (nee Bott) Forrest.
A funeral service for Roger will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church (3820 W Layton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53221) at 4:00 PM. Visitation will be from 2:00 to 3:45 PM. He will be interred at Arlington Park Cemetery at a later date.