Donal James Forbes

1935 - 2025

Donal James Forbes, 89, of Napa, California, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born on October 24, 1935, in Oakland, California, he was the third of six children born to John and Mary Forbes. He graduated from St. Elizabeth's High School in Oakland and worked various jobs before joining the Fire Department, where he began as a Hoseman and later became an Engineer. He proudly served the City of Oakland for 23 years. In addition, Donal was a talented builder in construction, a trade that was passed down to many in his family.

Donal loved his family and led by example through hard work and dedication. He had a deep love for music and passed it on to his children. He also loved car racing and in his youth held a title at the Oakland Speedway. He loved the ocean and found peace in its powerful presence. He enjoyed fishing at the Klamath River in Northern California and camping at Eagle Lake. He also cherished the brotherhood he found in the fire department.

Perhaps most notable was his extraordinary gift for storytelling, his quick wit, and his fantastic sense of humor.

Donal is survived by his wife of 69 years, Darlene; their children Laureen and husband Kent, Doreen, Donal Jr., John, Karen, and Eric and wife Linda; 14 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by their son Rick, his parents John and Mary Forbes, siblings Jack, Maureen, Eileen, and Kathleen, and his grandson Alex. He is also survived by his sister Patricia.

A Rosary will be held on Thursday, August 28th, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass and Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church in Napa, California. Because Donal loved the Redwoods, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

Save The Redwoods League: https://secure.savetheredwoods.org/a/honor

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Berkshire Assisted Living for their compassionate care.

Donal was deeply moved by President Abraham Lincoln's faith journey, especially Lincoln's grief over the loss of his son-something they shared in common. It inspired Donal to deepen his own relationship with God later in life, bringing him great peace. It was not uncommon for him to say to those he loved, "The most important relationship you will ever have is with the Lord." Donal James Forbes