Edward J. Forst died Thursday, June 21 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born Dec. 7, 1951 in Evergreen Park, Illinois, spending most of his youth in the Midwest. After graduating cum laude from Northern Illinois University in 1973, he and his wife, Darcy, moved to Phoenix where together they raised three children.

Mr. Forst was an avid businessman, golfer and fisherman. His family and friends were blessed by his strength of character, and knew him to be kind, compassionate and loving, with a gentle spirit and strong will. He spent many years on the soccer and baseball fields as a coach for his son’s various teams and in the audience at his daughters’ frequent dance recitals and cheerleading events. He was an extremely dedicated husband and father, taking an active role in the lives of all his family members.

In 1978, Mr. Forst earned an MBA from Arizona State University. After 18 years in commercial banking, he left his position as Senior Vice President at United Bank of AZ to join Sun State Builders. During his 16 years as President of Sun State Builders, Mr. Forst oversaw the development of many commercial properties in the Valley. He also served as treasurer of the Board of Directors at Moon Valley Country Club.

He loved being active in the Phoenix area, but his favorite place was spending time with his family in the peace and solitude provided on the waters of Lake Powell. They spent many weeks there fishing, water skiing, and hiking.

Surviving Mr. Forst are: his wife, Darcy; his children and their spouses, Sheri (Bob) of Flagstaff; Mike (Bianca) of Phoenix; and Jen (Brian) of Phoenix; and his grandchildren, Brady and Cate. He is also survived by his parents, John D. and Mary Lou Forst of Sun City West; brothers John of Seattle, Jim of Rancho Dominguez, CA, and sister Lori of Glendale. He was preceded in death by his sister Margie of San Diego and his infant son Joseph.

For donation information please call Sun State Builders 480-894-1286