Thomas E Forker

Thomas "Pappy" E. Forker, 73 of Zanesville, passed away on May 15, 2025, at his residence.
Tom was born on September 22, 1951, in Zanesville, Ohio, son of the late William H. Forker Sr. and Margaret "Peggy" (Marsh) Forker. He graduated from Zanesville High School in 1970. Tom was a veteran of the United States Army Reserves and retired from Owens Illinois after 49 ½ years. Beyond his service, Tom found joy in the camaraderie of his many affiliations. He was a past member of the Falls Township Volunteer Fire Department, American Legion Post 29, VFW Post 684 of Memphis, Tennessee, Freemason, Amrou Grotto, Muskingum County Fair Board Director and past President of GMP Union Local 178. Tom was an avid golfer and bowler as he enjoyed the friendly competition. Above all, he loved spending his free time with his family and loved ones.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, whom he married July 4, 1970, Brenda (Ralston) Forker; 2 children: Wendy (Bryan) Mettler, Scott (Tina) Forker; 6 grandchildren, Andrew (Abbey) Williams, Austin Williams, Zackhery (Whitney) Forker, Brandon Forker, Logan Forker, Matthew Mettler; 4 step grandchildren, Reigh (Brice) Tabler; 3 great-grandchildren; one on the way in October 2025; 10 step great grandchildren; brother, William (Sandy) Forker Jr.; sister in law, Sherry (Doug) Huey; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Wanda DeVall Ralston Cooper; father-in-law, Harold R. Ralston Sr.; brothers in law, Harold R. Ralston Jr. and Gary B. Cooper.
Family and friends may call on Monday May 19, 2025, from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM at DeLong-Baker & Lanning Funeral Home, where Masonic Services will be held by Lafayette Lodge #79 at 6:30 PM with Amrou Grotto Services to follow. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday May 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Coburn United Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Raaker officiating. Full military honors will be presented by The United States Army in conjunction with the VFW George Selsam Post 1058. Burial will conclude services at Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery.
DeLong-Baker & Lanning Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
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