John Lane Forsythe

John was the third of six children born to W. Hart Forsythe and Rita Rounds Forsythe. He attended St. Eugene Cathedral Elementary School and Cardinal Newman High School where many life-long friendships were forged. John excelled as a left-handed pitcher playing baseball, beginning with SRLL baseball on Brookwood Drive to Babe Ruth baseball at Doyle Park to Cardinal Newman, class of ’68, the first graduating class of Cardinal Newman that started in their freshman year. 

Big John, as he was affectionately called, was known for his bellowing big laugh and his gregarious nature, easily striking up a conversation with friends and strangers alike. John was never deterred by the challenges in his life. He enjoyed many years of working as a trusted custodian and gardener. Some of his best times were spent camping, fishing, bowling in local leagues and watching John Wayne movies. John was a proud member of the Young Men’s Institute at St. Eugene’s.  

The family wishes to thank LifeHouse In-Home Care and Providence Memorial Hospice who made it possible for John to maintain his independence and stay in his home where he passed peacefully in his sleep. A special thank-you to his caregiver Veronica who took exceptional care of him in the last few years. John is lovingly survived by siblings Kathy McCarter, Gordon Forsythe, Mary Gonnella and Barbara Rose along with many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. Predeceased by his parents, brother Bill Forsythe and nephew Justin Forsythe. 

All are warmly welcome to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 3 at his sister Kathy’s home 4735 Sunshine Ave, Santa Rosa at 12:00pm. Please bring a story to share. Private interment at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements through Lafferty & Smith Funeral Home.  

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