January 10, 1955 – May 23, 2023 (age 68)
Thad Forrester, a dedicated and humble man, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 68. Born in Logan, UT on January 10, 1955, Thad lived a life filled with wit, love, and devotion to his family and faith. As a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Thad held several callings and was a steadfast example of service to those around him. Thad married Shirlee Gonzales on October 4, 1985. Together, they raised seven beautiful children. After growing up in Smithfield, Utah, Thad eventually settled in Tooele, Utah where he spent his years as a skilled welder and fabricator in the manufacturing industry.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Thad’s greatest joy in life was his family.
He is survived by his wife, Shirlee Forrester; step-son, Michael Gonzales (Tonya); step-daughter, Chelsea Gonzales; step-daughter, Alaina Scalise (Michael); son, Ben Forrester (Nicole); daughter, Emma Olson; and daughter, Alyssa Forrester.
Thad was preceded in death by his father, James Forrester; mother, Marie Forrester; step-son, Patrick Gonzales; sister, Judy Palmer; brother, Ned Forrester; and brother, Jim Forrester.
Outside of work and family, Thad was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid chariot racer, horse raiser, and talented woodworker. His love for the outdoors led him to participate in mountain man rendezvous, and he found great joy in playing with his grandchildren. Thad was also a voracious reader, with a particular fondness for Porter Rockwell novels. His wit and sense of humor were a constant source of delight for those who knew him.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at 10:30-11:45 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1025 West Utah Avenue, Tooele, Utah, 84074.
The funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the same location.
We encourage friends and family to share memories and upload photos to Thad’s memorial page at tatemortuary.com to celebrate his life and legacy.