David Carl Forrest, 83, of Amery, WI passed away unexpectedly on November 4, 2026.

Dave was born in St. Croix Falls, WI on June 9, 1943 to Carl and Georgia (Olson) Forrest in St. Croix Falls, WI. He spent his childhood on the family farm in Dresser, WI.

Dave attended St. Croix Falls High School where he was a wrestler, played in the band, and met the love of his life, Melinda (Mack). Dave and Melinda were married on October 26th, 1962 and recently celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary. Following Dave’s graduation from University of Wisconsin River Falls, they moved to Chippewa Falls, WI and were blessed with two sons, Kenneth and Terry.

Dave and Melinda moved to Amery, WI in 1970 where Dave built the house they lived in until present. Over the years he wore many hats as a financial advisor, realtor, mortgage loan officer, and owned the Pizza Man. In 1996, Dave and Melinda opened the Forrest Inn where you could find him any day of the week tinkering with something.

Dave was active in the community serving on the Hospital Board for many years, was a member of the Lions Club, First Lutheran Church Men in Mission and Property Committee.

Dave loved to fish, hunt, and could fix almost anything. He enjoyed many road trips in the “Brave Badger” motor home and camping with family and friends throughout the years. He especially enjoyed spending time in the woods and at the hunting cabin with the guys. He could always be counted on for a good joke or story.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Clyde and Angela Mack, and his brother Bradley. He is survived by his wife, Melinda; siblings JoAnn (Jon) Buss and Connie (Dennis) Olson; sons, Kenneth (Debbie) Forrest and Terry (Ellen) Forrest; grandchildren, Miranda Forrest and Lauren (Tony) Cantwell, Ashley, Kate and Brett (Ashton) Forrest, and great-grandson, Bowen Cantwell; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Dave lived his life with purpose, served his community with pride, embraced his faith with conviction, and loved his family with all his heart. Though his work here on earth is complete, the lasting impact of his dedication, kindness and love will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate to know him.

Visitation will be held from 4-7pm on Thursday, November 12, 2026 at First Lutheran Church, Amery, WI.

Funeral Service will be held at First Lutheran Church on Friday, November 13, 2026 with the visitation at 10:00am and the service at 11:00am. All are invited to a luncheon following the service.