Obituary of Karol Gene Forrest

Karol Forrest Obituary

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Karol Gene Forrest, 75, of Chico, California, passed away on February 26, 2024. He was born on January 8, 1949, in Bakersfield, California.

Karol was a talented musician and teacher, known for his infectious laugh and compassionate nature. He was an amazing husband, father, grandpa aka Didi, and family man, always greeting everyone with a smile. Karol served as the drum major in high school and college, leading bands to numerous victories and prestigious performances.

He owned Main Street Music in downtown Chico, where he shared his vast knowledge of musical instruments and accessories with his customers. He later taught private music lessons and shared his passion for music with many students. But the thing he most enjoyed was teaching band and music at Willows High School and Chico High School, achieving top ratings in festivals each spring. His dedication to music education was truly admirable.

Karol is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marla Forrest, daughters Korissa Lowe and Kimbri Davis, sons-in-law James Lowe and Peter Davis, and grandchildren Brynna, Kohen, Rok, and Tye. He was preceded in death by his parents, H.C. Forrest and Mildred Forrest.

Apart from his career pursuits, Karol enjoyed playing in swing bands, participating in pit orchestras for musicals, and playing saxophone and flute on the worship team at Christian Life Center. He cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, whom he loved taking out to breakfast, playing games, and going on truck rides in his 1958 Chevy truck.

A service to honor and celebrate Karol's life will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at 3 pm at the Center for the Arts-Pleasant Valley High School in Chico, California. The Brusie Funeral Home in Chico is assisting with the arrangements.

Karol Gene Forrest will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy as a talented musician, dedicated teacher, and loving family man will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

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