We are heartbroken to announce that Forrest Cecile Owens passed away unexpectedly from complications of cancer on July 21, 2022, at the age of 64.
Forrest is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate of 27 years, Anita, his children Sean (Jessica), Kortni (Chris), Trevor, and Jason, his grandchildren Ethan, Denver, Summer, and Violet, his mother Sharon, his stepmother Donna, his brothers Andy and Elliott, his first wife Gail, along with numerous friends and family. Forrest was predeceased by his father Andrew (1998) and his brother Todd (2020).
Born in Moosejaw, SK on May 6, 1958, Forrest was the eldest of four boys. He was raised and spent most of his life on the Saanich Peninsula. Forrest was kind-hearted, happy, loving, caring, gentle, supportive, and generous. He was also fricken hilarious! He was devoted to his family, friends, career and community.
Forrest started his career in construction as a Red Seal Carpenter. Later he worked in municipal public works. Forrest was a member of the Central Saanich Fire Department for over 35 years. He was a founding member of local 4428. After he retired from his role as Assistant Fire Chief (2018), he continued as a Pain-On-Call Assistant Fire Chief. He was well known and respected in the community not only as a firefighter, but also as an avid fisherman, dedicated coach in hockey and lacrosse, and member on several boards and committees. He was a mentor to many and a true leader.
Forrest will live on in our hearts, memories, and stories forever.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, August 14, 2022 at the Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton, BC, V8M 1S8. The procession will begin at approximately 12:00pm (noon) with the service commencing at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Forrest Owens Memorial Scholarship c/o the Central Saanich Volunteer Firefighters Assocation, 1512 Keating Cross Rd. Saanichton, BC V8M 1W9
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
http://www.mccallgardens.com
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doranharper1958@gmail.com
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A and T … words escape us ! You were one , kind and FUNNY soul ❣️
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Peter (Radat) Smith Hi FO:
I so wanted to attend your celebration of life service today (August 14, 2022). Alas, my own poor health made if difficult for me to do so.
We met in the late 80’s when I was working at Central Saanich Public Works. You were working for the Roads-Drains, but soon found your passion with the Central Saanich Fire Department. Anita and I worked for a time together and it pleased me to see the two of you get married and start a family. We enjoyed some very memorable baseball games and road rallys in the early years.
I think she called me out at a close second-base play and I got hopelessly lost in the road rally (I was still learning the District in my rookie years). Forest, you were always kind, but direct when you inspected the Public Works Yard from the perspective of Fire Prevention. Being thorough, you always found something that was easily addressed. Thanks for being so conscientious, but maintaining a friendly interaction.We need more people of your calibre. Although, I have not seen you for some time, I do miss you. It is hard to know that you are in a pain-free and loving location now when you are missed by so many co-workers, friend, and family.
Rest, my friend!
Peter (Radar) Smith
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Nancy Borden and Sonny Watson Always appreciated Forrest’s way of being and the care with which he brought to how he served the peninsula community. Our condolences to the family.
I can’t believe Forrest Owens passed. I went to Clairemont school was sending messages from Clairmont school’s past students and talked about the reunion in 2027. I was told Todd had passed. I had mentioned to Owen I was building a garage and trying to put in subdivision. Well, my subdivision was approved. I was so saddened of their losses. Hope to see some of his family at 2027 reunion, 50-year celebration of Doran grad of 1977. Rest in peace Owen.