Dec. 1, 1929 -- Jan. 29, 2005

Edward W. ("Bill," "Billy," "Eddie") Forsberg, 75, of Helmen Road, South Bend, died unexpectedly at 6:33 a.m. Saturday, January 29, 2005, in Memorial Hospital following a short illness.

Mr. Forsberg was born December 1, 1929, in South Bend, to the late Ed W. and Marie (Benko) Forsberg, and was a lifetime area resident.

On October 13, 1979, in South Bend, he married Virginia A. Rose, who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Charisse (William) Prasalowicz of Wisconsin and Lucy (John) Klaudusz of South Bend; three sons, Brian (Sue) Forsberg and Greg Forsberg, both of South Bend, and Bradford Forsberg of Missouri; two stepdaughters, Deborah Enright of Kansas and Diana Inman of Mishawaka, Ind.; two stepsons, Ronald W. (Lisa) Rose of Granger, Ind., and Victor Smith of Seattle, Wash.; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a sister, Annie (John) Yandl of Osceola, Ind.; and a brother, Robert (Shirley) Forsberg of South Bend.

Mr. Forsberg retired from Bendix-Allied Signal in 1983 after 35 years. Bill enjoyed spending time with his wife, Virginia, at home, taking care of his lawn and watching television with his buddy, "Sparky," a stray dog given to him and Virginia. He was an avid sports fan, especially boxing, Notre Dame and the Cubs. He also enjoyed communicating with his neighbors on a regular basis. Most people who knew Bill would say, "He's a character." Everyone seemed to like Bill. He treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was very proud of his service to the United Sates of America as a Marine in the Korean War. He served with the 3rd Battalion 7th Marines. He landed at Inchon and fought in Seoul, Wonson and Chosin. Bill was a good-natured, fun-loving companion and friend. He will be pleasantly remembered by those who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 2, in the Welsheimer Family Funeral Home North, 17033 Cleveland Road. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today, February 1, in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.