OAKHURST — Forrest Burrell Murlen Updike, Jr. passed away peacefully on Jan. 11, 2018 at the age of 70 in Oakhurst, CA..
Also known as Woody or Butch, Forrest was born in Tiffen, Ohio on Dec. 24, 1947 to Forrest Sr. and Margaret Marie.
He grew up in Bloomington/Richfield, Minnesota, graduating from Richfield High School before enlisting in the Navy, in 1967, as a SeaBee. He bravely served in the Vietnam war until being honorably discharged in 1970.
Forrest lived most of his adult life in Simi Valley, CA., and worked in facilities maintenance and management for state colleges and large high-rises in southern California.
He retired and moved to Oakhurst in 2013. He enjoyed the Sierra, its wildlife and scenery, and being close to his children who also moved to this area. Forrest loved playing pool at the tournament level, watching professional sports, photography and trips on his motorcycle.
Forrest is survived by his two children, Susanne Waite and Jon Updike, both of Coarsegold, along with his sisters, Carolyn Weckop and Marilyn Espie of Hastings and Richfield, MN, respectively, and his nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Marie Druley and Forrest B.M. Updike, Sr., and his son-in-law, Terry Allen Waite.
The family wishes to thank the Veterans Association for their medical care and assistance. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a non-profit organization that supports veterans in Forrest’s memory, such as Disabled American Veterans, United Service Organization, or Intrepid Fallen Heroes.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 1st, 10 a.m. at the Oakhill Cemetery, where Forrest will be buried with Military Honors and gun salute. Brunch will immediately follow, Dutch treat at Sweetwater Steakhouse.
Oakhill Cemetery is located at 40188 Highway 41 in Oakhurst.
Sweetwater Steakhouse is located at 41177 Highway 41 in Oakhurst.
