Lavern Edward "Ed" Forbes

Lavern Edward “Ed” Forbes, age 79, of Topeka, KS, passed away on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka.

He was born the son of Leland M. “Lee” and Leona (Hermann) Forbes on August 25, 1943, in Topeka, KS.

Ed served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War in the 101^st Infantry. He was honorably discharged in 1969. He then started his career as an over-the-road truck driver. His love of trucks was lifelong, and he was always buying, selling, and collecting trucks. From trucking, he transitioned to employment and retirement from the State of Kansas. After retirement, Ed continued working hard as a volunteer for the Veterans Administration.

During his working career, Ed graduated with his Doctorate from Santa Monica Pacific University in Healthcare Management. On October 25, 2012, Ed married Brenda Lee (Williamson) Simpson in Eureka Springs, AR. Together, they shared over ten years of marriage.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Brenda Lee Forbes; children, Edward Forbes (Brenda), Danny Forbes (Connie), Shantelle Sullivan (Sean), Katherine Farrow (Tyler), Rebecca Thomas (Paul); as well as two stepsons, Mike Simpson (Barb) and Heath Simpson and (Jenny). Other survivors include many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a sister-in-law, Helen Forbes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughters, Sheri Simnic and Brianne Forbes; and a brother, Larry Forbes.

Visitation for Ed will take place from 10-11:30 A.M., on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. A light reception will follow after the visitation.

Cremation will take place and Ed will be laid to rest at Prairie Home Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ed's memory to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.