Bernard Dean Forbes

Bernard “Bernie” Forbes, 72, of Conesville passed away Monday, March 16, 2026 at his home. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 2-5 P.M. at Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral & Cremation Services of Columbus Junction. Graveside services will be held at a later date. Memorials in Bernie’s name may be made to the Special Olympics of Eastern Iowa or a Veterans Organization of choice.

Bernard D. Forbes was born on November 7, 1953 in Conesville, the son of James Doris (Mitchell) Forbes. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1970 to 1993 as a Machinist Mate in the shipyards of Bremerton, WA, San Diego CA and Pearl Harbor, HI. On August 16, 1980 he was united in marriage to Sandra Northridge. After retiring from the Navy, he worked at the Iowa Veterans Hospital and at the CJ Speedway.  He enjoyed racing, fishing golfing, bowling, camping and was always fixing or tinkering with something.  Bernie was a special Olympics Volunteer from the 1990s until last year and he had the privilege of cheering on his daughter, Sarah.  He never knew a stranger and could always be found lending a hand.  Most of all he loved being with his family.       

He will be deeply missed by his children, Michael (Courtney) Burch and Josh (Erin) Forbes; grandchildren, Arya, Ainslee, Liam, Lucielle, Adriel, and Montgomery; siblings, Joyce Clubb, Gary (Myra) Forbes, Nancy Lewis, Steve (Cindy) Forbes, Doug (Marilyn) Forbes, Sandi Slater, Tina (David) Fountain along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, James Forbes; daughter, Sarah Forbes grandchildren; Acheron and Alaric Forbes; brothers, Jim Forbes, John Forbes; sisters, Bonnie Forbes, Debbie Bean, and Sheila Miller.

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