Donald Philip Forward passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday January 8, 2024, at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. He was 60 years old.
Born in Sussex, New Brunswick on November 14, 1963, son of the late Kenneth Arthur Forward, and Donna Ann Forward (nee McGinnis) of London, ON.
He is survived by his wife Irma, and son Jason.
Phil will be missed by his brothers Kenny, Tony and his sisters Linda (Grant) and Sandra (Rodney) and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Major Donald Philip Forward proudly served his country for 34 years, from 1983 until his retirement in 2017. Phil started his career in the Royal Canadian Airforce as a Communications Research Operator. Upon completing his bachelor’s degree, he took his commission and became an Intelligence Officer. Phil spent his career in postings from coast to coast in Canada and internationally in the United States and Europe. His career included numerous deployments to Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and more. On top of being a veteran he also managed to complete his Master of Science degree in the process.
Phil possessed unlimited amounts of energy and was always up for an adventure or playing another game of hockey, or a round of golf, including socializing with anyone keen to hear a story.
Phil never met a stranger. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and was generous to all. Phil’s dark sense of humor helped make light of his daily struggles of living with Parkinsons.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Beechwood Cemetery on Monday, 22 January. Visitation will commence at 11:00am, followed by a service and a military burial service. A reception will take place afterwards.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.parkinson.ca
Digital Guestbook
Brenda and Wayne Gauthier
Wanda McAleese
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Philip. My thoughts are with you all at this time. ❤️
Bart Plaggenborg
Very sorry to hear of Philips passing. Growing up in Smiths creek, the Forward family were great friends and neighbors. My thoughts go out to them all.
Shirley Kelly
Donna & family
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your son
Cathy & Brian (U-Rock Music School)
Dear Irma & Jason,
We were beyond saddened to learn of Phil’s passing to the big hockey rink in the sky. He will be sorely missed. Upon moving onto Tempest 11 years ago, Phil was the very first neighbour we met. His friendliness and energy was unparalleled. The stories he told with such exuberance and passion, his quick wit and boundless energy were among the long list of things we loved about Phil. His constant desire to help people was also amazing. We witnessed Phil’s gift of kindness on so many occasions. He was a character and one that was dearly loved by all of his neighbours. We will truly miss him.
Our deepest sympathies,
Cathy & Brian
Helen McInnes
Donna I am so sorry to hear of your son's passing, please pass along my sincere condolences to all the family. Hugs!
Rosemary McGinnis & Bob Hamer
Sending our condolences and much love Irma & Jason, Donna, Kenny, Tony, Linda and Sandra. Rosemary & Bob
Chuck Foster
I worked with Phil for many years. He always had a smile and a story. He and Irma were one of the first to come over to offer their condolences when Cindy passed away. I'll never forget him for that!
Jim & Penny Forward
So sorry to hear of Philip’s passing. We are sending our condolences to the entire family. Philip was a ray of sunshine to many people. Xo
Keith Clement
I’m one of Philips many first cousins and have so many great memories of him from our youth,,and looked up to him so much,,you will always be my hero ,,rest in peace,,love Keith,Corinne & Kyle Clement ❤️
Sending our deepest condolences to Phil’s family. I had the pleasure of working with Phil at CFWC. His happy go lucky personality and ability to make people smile and laugh will not be forgotten. RIP Phil Forward