Forrest Christner

Forrest Christner

1934-2020

Forrest Dean Christner, 86, of Ollie passed away on Sept. 12, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family after battling cancer for 17 years.  A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Forrest was born on July 23, 1934 to Ezra and Blanche (Houston) Christner.  He graduated from Ollie High School by way of GED and proudly served in the US Air Force.  Forrest was a member of Ollie Baptist Church.  He was a hard worker; having worked for 28 years for the fertilizer plant, West Liberty Liqui-Grow.  He also owned and operated Christner Excavating for many years.  He married the love of his life, Trilla Weber, on Feb. 24, 2006.  He had a deep enduring appreciation for the land, always loved to travel, go on vacations, camping and boat rides. Above all he mostly enjoyed spending time with his loved ones.

Forrest’s spirited demeanor and fiery determination guided his entire life.  His work ethic was immeasurable and his “can do” approach was legendary.  He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

He was a beloved husband and best friend to Trilla Ann Christner.  Loving father to his two children: daughter, Kimberly Sue Bodkins of Iowa City; and stepdaughter, Cecilia Kessel Adam of Fairfield.  The proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren: Zachary (Hillary) Hesseltine; Broughdy (Chad) Christner; Kaylea (CJ) Fridley; Aaron (Shelby) Adam; Angie (Brock) Haines; and Briale Kessel.  He was the proud great grandpa to 10 great grandchildren: Taylor Kruse; Amari Vorasane; Summit Hesseltine; Kaylynn Ward; Cole Christner; Arianna Ward; Amelia Christner; Kenneth Fridley; Aubree Haines; and Calan Kessel.  Loving brother to Marvin Christner of What Cheer.  Fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many good friends.

Forrest was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tammy Lee Christner; stepson Randal Lester McKinsey; four sisters: Ruby Rockhill, Lucille Koth, Viola Schaeffer, Maxiene Carris and Freda Quick; and brother: Hubert Christner.

The family would like to thank Lisa Upton and Amy of Essence of Life Hospice for their excellent care, compassion, and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Ollie Baptist Church and Essence of Life Hospice. 

Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.iowacremation.com under Obituaries.

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