Obituary of Donald George Forkas

Donald George Forkas, passed on January 19, with loving family at his side; born June 1, 1941 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady.Beloved husband of 49 years of Nancy Lee; cherished father of Lisa, Amber (David), Wendy, and Dustin (Raquel); treasured grandfather of Meghan and Dylan. Son of the late James and Helen Forkas; brother of Carolyn, and James (deceased). Donald was proud to be in the first graduating class of Niskayuna High School; he graduated Union College in 1964; he was a career-long Mechanical Engineer who was awarded several patents, and retired after over 40 years from the Watervliet Arsenal and Benet Labs. He also enjoyed a second career as a real-estate agent. His civic endeavors included 50 years as a volunteer firefighter at Niskayuna Fire District 1; assisting at the Vet House of Ballston Spa; helping at the Faith Baptist Church food pantry; helping with elementary math at Keane School in Schenectady; and helping at Jacob's Well at the City Mission of Schenectady, New York. Furthermore, Don never failed to stop to assist a motorist in need, helping numerous drivers in varying states of distress. He was a good neighbor, and could fix anything. A celebration of Don’s life will take place at the Faith Baptist Church in Rexford, NY on Sunday, January 22, at 4 PM. The family requests colorful, cheerful attire; please no mourning black. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: The Vet House 1214 Saratoga Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020 or to Faith Baptist Church Pantry 11 Glenridge Rd. Rexford, NY 12148