Forest Leon Melzer

MELZER, Forest Leon Age 101, of Fenton, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024. A private family service will be held at a later date, with his cremated remains interred at Great Lakes National Cemetery. In honor of his memory, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Born on February 25, 1923, in Effingham, Illinois, Forest was the beloved son of Irving William and Elsie Starkey (Dobbins) Melzer. He graduated from Walled Lake High School in 1942 and went on to lead a life filled with love, service, and dedication. A proud U.S. Army veteran, Forest served during World War II and attained the rank of Master Sergeant. He was the last remaining member of his unit, a testament to his strength and resilience. On July 30, 1949, Forest married the love of his life, Greta Joy Johnson, in Birmingham. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership, filled with laughter, kindness, and unwavering support for one another. They shared many happy years together until Greta’s passing on May 3, 2007. Forest's love for her remained a guiding light throughout his life. Forest spent his career at General Motors Proving Grounds - Buick Motor Division, where he was known for his dedication and work ethic, retiring in 1980 as a General Supervisor. He is deeply loved and will be dearly missed by his two children, Alan F. (Lynn) Melzer of Pinckney and Teresa A. Melzer (John Stewart) of Linden, as well as his seven grandchildren: Jason (Angel) Stewart, Gregory (Kristen) Stewart, David (Bridget) Stewart, Marnie Stewart, Rachel (Ian) Loch, Kyle Melzer, and Stacey Kaczmarek (fiancé, Zach). Forest’s legacy of love and joy lives on through his seven great-grandchildren: Savannah, Dominic, Caleb, Connor, Piper, Oliver, and Palmer. He is also survived by his loving siblings, Alice Grondin, Edward Melzer, and Miles (Patricia) Melzer, along with many nieces and nephews who held him in great affection. Forest was preceded in death by his parents, Irving and Elsie Melzer; his beloved wife, Greta; and two dear brothers, William and Donald Melzer. Forest’s memory will be forever cherished by his family and all who knew him. His life was one of quiet strength, deep love, and a lasting legacy of kindness. May he rest in peace. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, located at 1000 W. Silver Lake Rd., Fenton, MI 48430. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.