Aug. 17, 1941 €“ Jan. 15, 2009
Ronald “Radiator Ron” Forsythe Sr., 67, died Jan. 15, 2009 at his home in Sweet Home.
He was born Aug. 17, 1941 in Hammond, Ind. to Theodore Verda and Elizabeth Louise (Jones) Forsythe.
During his childhood, his family lived in several states before settling in California. Soon after graduating high school, he met his future wife, Karen Sue Averill. They were married the first day of winter 1961 and had three children: Ronnie Jr., Randy, and Laura. Karen was a stay-at-home mom while Mr. Forsythe started his own mechanics shop, in which he became known for his high- performance racing engines and transmissions.
In November of 1976, the Forsythes moved their family to Sweet Home. Mr. Forsythe bought the local radiator/transmission shop, which became known as “Big Yellow Trick Trannys.”
The couple divorced in 1985, but Mr. Forsythe continued to live and work in Sweet Home until September 2007, when his shop was accidentally burned to the ground, forcing him into an early and unwanted retirement.
Even though he suffered several health setbacks over recent years, he always managed to pull through, thanks to the constant and loving care of his life-partner, Wendy Phillips, who was by his side until the end.
Those who knew Mr. Forsythe will always remember him as a tough, stubborn man with a heart of gold and a great gift of gab, laughter and B.S. He will also be remembered as a fantastic father who will be missed terribly by his son, Randy.
He is survived by his life partner, Wendy Phillips; son Randy Forsythe and daughter-in-law Lisa; “adopted” son Bruce; daughter Laura; step-daughter Carrie and her family; sister Jan Rone; niece Donna Morehead and her family; nephew David Rone and his family; six grandchildren and extended family and friends that he has made over the years.
Mr. Forsythe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers; brother-in-law; ex-wife; and his infant son, Ronnie Jr.
A memorial service was held on Jan. 18 at the VFW.
Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.