Richard L. “Rich” Forster, 81, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2026. He was born June 17, 1944, in Chicago, IL, son of the late Leo and Monica Forster. Rich proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he was stationed in Vietnam during the war. His career was in California working for a union HVAC company from which he retired. In his free time, Rich enjoyed golfing and creating stained glass artwork, which he freely created and gave to others as gifts. Rich was an active and devoted member of the American Legion Post 94 in Valparaiso, and served as Commander of the Color Guard/Honor Guard, and was also a member of the Marine Corps League. It brought Rich great joy to see others smile, especially children, which is why participating in the annual “Toys for Tots” toy drive meant so much to him. Rich was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need. His kind demeanor, selfless nature, and generous spirit will be fondly remembered. Rich will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Rich is survived by his daughters: Christina (Tommy) Strahan, and Becky (Terry) Kruse; loving companion, Karla Skold Richardson Eder; grandchildren: Kayla, Nathan, Daniella, Victoria, Manuel, and Solomon; and great-grandson, Elijah. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Forster; and sister, Marie.
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 94, 4 Monroe Street, Valparaiso, IN, with military honors and a memorial service beginning at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rich’s name to the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots @ https://valparaiso-in.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx?nPageID=0&nPreviewInd=0&nRedirectInd=3
