Bruce Raimer Forsgren, was born July 19, 1931, and died peacefully on July 14, 2026, 5 days before his 95th birthday.

Bruce grew up in Warren, Pennsylvania, and always called it home, even after living all over the world during an esteemed military career.

After graduating from Warren High School, he attended and graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. He enrolled in the Air Force ROTC and especially enjoyed singing in the renowned Allegheny Singers choir.

In 1956, Bruce was accepted into the U.S. Air Force flight training program. He went on to fly many types of multi engine aircraft, including the C-130, C-141, and C-5A, carrying crucial supplies to support U.S. troops, including during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Assignments include Japan, Hawaii, Alabama, Oklahoma, Washington, California and Delaware. A highlight of his career was serving with the recovery teams for Apollo missions, retrieving astronauts from the space capsule in the Pacific Ocean.

Bruce retired from the Air Force in 1986, as a Lieutenant Colonel. He took great pride in serving his country, receiving many awards, medals and commendations during his career. Following retirement, he resided in Washington state for the remainder of his life.

Bruce lived an eventful and interesting life. He loved to joke, sing and simply be with others. He was very close to his younger brother, Wayne Forsgren, and sister-in-law, Loyce Forsgren. He was also a hilarious and lively uncle to Krista Forsgren and Erik Forsgren and great uncle to Krista’s children, Na’im, Ari, and Mae Ahdieh.

Bruce gathered friends wherever he went, building community through his happy and playful demeanor. He lives life to the fullest and made so many people happy along the way.

He will be Sorley missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service with full military honors presented by the Chief Cornplanter Post 135 Honor Guard and Active-Duty Air Force Personnel, will be held at Oakland Cemetery, 37 Mohawk Ave. in the veteran’s section, on Saturday October 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM. All are welcome to attend.

The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., has been entrusted to help the family with local services.