Jeffrey R. Forsberg Sr.

"I can see death, it’s a beautiful thing." These were among the final words of Jeffrey Richard Forsberg Sr., a testament to his grace and unyielding compassion and care letting his family know that he was at peace. Jeff embarked on his next journey on November 25, 2024, at the age of 66, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

A warrior in every sense of the word, Jeff faced a 25-year battle with cancer with unwavering strength, positivity, and an indomitable will to live. His resilience was a hallmark of his life, inspiring all who knew him.

Born on February 1, 1958, to Patricia and Richard Forsberg. Jeff grew up in Eastlake, Ohio, where he attended North High School. A lifelong learner, he later earned an associate’s degree from Lakeland Community College. Jeff possessed a remarkable ability for learning and problem-solving—there was truly nothing he couldn’t fix. An incredibly hard worker, Jeff’s career led to the creation of his own company, General Repairs by Jeff.

Jeff loved the outdoors. He found peace and joy on the waters of Lake Erie, spending countless hours fishing for perch and walleye. His boat, docked for years on the Chagrin River, became a gathering place for family and friends, filled with laughter, storytelling, and togetherness. Music filled the home and garage and backyard with his favorite rock tunes such as Rockin’ in the Free World. Known for his humor, Jeff had a knack for turning everyday moments into cherished memories, whether by inventing funny lyrics to songs or playfully transforming names into amusing nicknames. 

Jeff’s greatest love was his family. Together for nearly 50 years and married for 47, he loved his beloved wife, Debbie, more than anything in this world with an unmatched devotion. Jeff never missed an occasion to surprise her with flowers, gifts, or heartfelt gestures that reflected the depth of his love. She remained by his side through every moment of life’s journey.

As a proud and loving father to his children Jessica and Jeffrey Jr, he would do anything for them and was their biggest supporter. He attended every swim meet, supported their passions (including some quirky pets), and cherished the joy of surprising them with spontaneous adventures when least expected—like announcing at a random dinner time that it was time to pack up and drive to Pennsylvania to visit family.

Jeff’s love extended to every role he embraced—devoted husband to Deborah (nee Vargo) Forsberg; proud father to Jessica (Alex) Berger and Jeffrey Forsberg Jr.; loyal son to Patricia (nee Setele) and Richard (deceased) Forsberg; treasured son-in-law to Mary (nee Decosimo) and Joe (deceased) Vargo; cherished brother to Cyndee (Matt) Fleischhauer, Linda (Doug) Fuke, Laura, Rosemary (Bob) Fox, Donna Swanda, Denice and Steve Marchese; and caring cousin and uncle to many nieces and nephews and great-nieces/nephews; and doting “dad” to his cat Alvin and "grandpa" to his grand-pups Buddy, Wolfie, Hank and Arnie. His legacy is one of love, generosity and unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Family will receive loved ones and friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Jeff at The DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home of Willoughby Hills, 28890 Chardon Road (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) on Saturday, December 21, 2024, from 1-4 PM. 

A funeral service in celebration of his life will immediately follow at 4 PM.

To have known Jeff was to experience a profound and abiding love. He will forever be missed and never forgotten. His life was, indeed, a beautiful thing.