James C. Forsberg

James Charles Forsberg, son of Rudolph “Rudy” and Arlene Forberg, was born on March 26, 1954, in Wenatchee, Washington, and passed peacefully on March 24, 2025, two short days before his seventy-first birthday. As the self-proclaimed favorite of three mischievous boys — Jim, the younger brother of Bill and the older brother of Eric — mastered the art of keeping the peace while stirring the pot. In Jim’s own words, “I had a great upbringing.” Jim was proof that an extraordinary life of impactful service and leadership can be created through ordinary acts of kindness and love. 

Jim was a natural athlete and leader, excelling in football, basketball, and church softball during high school. He also showcased his musical talent as a saxophone player and the band's president. Jim continued his education at Brigham Young University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Management and Youth Leadership. While attending college, Jim met Robin (Van Den Berghe), and that’s when life got interesting. They were married on August 11, 1976. They began building a life that would lead them to establish homes in California, New York, and Massachusetts, all while welcoming four beautiful children: Dana, Kirstin, Anders, and Jamie.  

Throughout his 42-year career, Jim worked with the YMCA, KinderCare, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jim's exemplary work ethic can be attributed to his love for a good checklist. If it was on the list, it got done. Upon retirement, Jim couldn’t sit still. He decided to go back to a job he loved in high school: working with adults with disabilities. Jim loved working alongside these individuals and found that their joy brought fun and fulfillment to his retirement years. 

Jim’s service extended beyond his professional and personal life. In 2021, he and Robin fulfilled their lifelong dream of serving a senior mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Kerrville, Texas. As missionaries, they truly lost themselves in serving others, finding joy in every encounter. While serving in Kerrville, Jim and Robin were called as Temple Leaders for the Hartford, Connecticut temple. As a disciple of Christ Jim loved serving as Temple President because he was able to listen to, learn from, and love those he served. The workers and patrons strengthened his faith and testimony.

Jim was a man of refined tastes and simple pleasures. He found joy in AMC movie marathons, Mafia lore, the pleasure of traveling, and in wearing the loudest Aloha shirts he could find. Did we mention Jim was colorblind? He was. Jim’s greatest joy was his family. His survivors, Robin, Dana (Jason) Widing, Kirstin (Travis) Reed, Anders (Rhiannan) Forsberg, and Jamie Forsberg, along with his 12 uniquely different but much-loved grandchildren, spanning ages 24-6 and his brothers will feel the loss of his presence. Still, they will never forget his requests for head and foot massages, his love of Sasquatch, and, most importantly, his parable of The Shiny Nickel, reminding all that even the smallest things in life hold great value. 

 Jim’s extraordinary life was lived with faith, service, sacrifice, love, and laughter. He leaves behind a legacy of the importance a quick wit, being a true friend and always finding the silver lining.  He taught a masterclass in how to live an extraordinary life through his words, actions, and interactions. 

A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 584 West Street, Ludlow, MA, at 6:00 pm on Thursday April 3, 2025.  The Forsberg Family will receive condolences from 3:30 to 5:30 prior to the service.