Forest McKibben, known affectionately as “Tree,” of Lancaster, OH, passed away on October 16, 2024, following a battle with cancer that affected his liver and lungs. His passing has deeply touched his family and the many people he supported throughout his life. Forest’s legacy is marked by generosity and his unwavering commitment to family, friends, and his community.
His wife, Betty, with whom he shared a life for 38 years, faces the burden of covering his final expenses. Cassandra Ratliff, Forest’s daughter, has set up a fundraiser to help honor his memory. She reflects on her father’s giving nature, mentioning that he often supported causes such as The Firefighter Boot Drive, Make-A-Wish, Easterseals, LEORF, Special Olympics, Toys for Tots, and Wounded Warriors, among others. Known for his warmth, Forest was always willing to lend a hand, never missing an opportunity to make a new friend and brighten someone’s day.
Donations have already started to come in to help ease the burden for Betty, who is now navigating this loss on a fixed income. Contributions to the fundraiser include support from community members like Nathan Sisson, who donated $100, and Brittany Vermillion, who contributed $25, among others. Cassandra also expressed gratitude for any shares of Forest’s story, hoping to spread awareness and gather further support.
Community members have taken to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute. Cassandra Ratliff shared, "I understand that times are tough right now, and even if you aren’t able to donate, if you could please just share so that we could try to reach out to as many people as possible, I would be so thankful and grateful."
Forest’s legacy of kindness and service will be cherished by those who knew him. We extend our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Betty, Cassandra, and the entire McKibben family as they navigate this difficult time.
Short Summary of Forest McKibben
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Forest McKibben |
| Date of Passing | October 16, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Organized By | Cassandra Ratliff |
| Location | Lancaster, OH |
| Purpose | Cremation service, urn, and associated expenses |
| Recent Donations | $100 (Nathan Sisson), $25 (Brittany Vermillion) |
| Notable Causes Supported | Firefighter Boot Drive, Make-A-Wish, Easterseals |
Note:This post was written and edited by Ellie Harris, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.