Robert Forrest

Robert "Bob" Earl Forrest, age 59 and a resident of Konawa, Oklahoma passed away at his home on Monday, October 8, 2012.  Cremation is under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home in Konawa.  He was born on February 8, 1953 in Jersey City, New Jersey to Bobby Ray Forrest and Roseanne (Giordano) Forrest.   Bob resided with Konawa native Dr. Arthur Kennedy, a former East Central University music professor who is in his 90's.  Bob was a free-lance sports writer for The Ada News since 2004 and spent decades in the newspaper business in Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana.  He covered horse racing for the Tulsa World for more than 15 years and worked in several horse training arenas before devoting his time entirely to the newspaper business.   Bob was a reporter for all seasons who did it all - with excellence- from sports to features to crime reporting.  His greatest quality, though, was his eternal cheerfulness and bright, positive outlook.  He was a great guy and a great guy to be around.  He will be missed.   The Ada News sports editor, Jeff Cali said:  "The sports department won't be the same without Bob Forrest.  He was truly dedicated to covering student athletes all across the area.  Bob was such a hard worker.  I'm proud to have know and worked with him over the years."   Bob is survived by his daughter, Ashley Forrest of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and his son, Eric Forrest of Longview, Texas; father, Bobby Ray Forrest of Longview, Texas; one sister, Margaret Forrest Rankin of Spring, Texas; his granddaughter and step granddaughter, Kaytlin Forrest and Haley Henley of Longview, Texas; step-father, Chester D. Cox of Spring, Texas and numerous nieces, cousins, and nephews.   A memorial celebration of life for Bob is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 14th at the Konawa Gymnasium.  Dress is casual.  His family asks that guests share their favorite stories about Bob.  A "horse" tournament is planned with prizes, including cash and Thunder memorabilia.  Refreshments include barbecue, chips, lemonade, iced tea, and Bob's favorite - ice cream. Funeral Information: October 14, 2012, 2:00 PM Memorial service will be held at Konawa Gymnasium. Cremation is under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home located at 217 N. Broadway, Konawa, OK 74849