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
Susan Cousins
Paul Parker
I met Phil as a neighbour only recently. He was a great man and someone I considered a friend. I will miss you Phil.
Mary and Laurie Sanford
Donna and family.
So very sorry for your loss. Sending you our thoughts and prayers.
Diana Forward
Phil was one of a kind, he had a real zest for life which was amazing! My thoughts and prayers are for his family.
He will be missed RIP
Valerie Walker
I am so heartbroken about Philip’s passing. He was a wonderful man! I have so many fond memories of growing up with all of you. My heart goes out to you all. I will be thinking of you all tomorrow and in the difficult days to follow.
Rowena Campbell
Condolences to Philips family during this sad time
Patricia & Robert Brown
My sincere condolences to the family of Phillip Forward on his passing. So young and such a nice man having met him at his mom, Donna Forward’s, 75th birthday.
Arlean B
Donna and all of Philips family my most sincere condolences.
Mark & Denise Wilkins
Sorry for your loss our condolences to all the family. RIP Buddy
Anne Marie Hourihan
So very sorry to hear this Donna. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kevin and I will both be in attendance!