Forrest J. Strickler

Forrest J. Strickler, 97, of Bella Vista, Ark., died Monday, July 1, 2019. He was born November 7, 1921, in Monmouth, Ill. He was the only son of Forrest H. and Hazel Perry Strickler. Forrest moved to Bella Vista over 30 years ago with his beloved wife of 48 years, Harriet Strickler, whom he referred to as "the absolute joy of my life." Formerly he had worked as an accountant for the State of Illinois for 28 years. He was a past Grand Worthy Patron of Eastern Star, a Third Degree Mason, and a Shriner. He was a member of Highland Christian Church. Forrest was a familiar and much-admired member of the community. He served for many years as commander of the Bella Vista Honor Guard, officiating at hundreds of veteran burials and special ceremonies. He was a World War II combat veteran of the Battle of the Bulge and attended the Potsdam Conference as part of President Truman's Honor Guard. He was a member of the American Legion for 60 years and VFW for 20 years. Forrest is survived by his step-daughter, Laurel (Terry) Krautwurst; six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Besides his wife, he was predeceased by step-daughter Carol (John) Hapke and Holly (Seymour) Bernstein. A Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 8, at Highland Christian Church, 1500 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Ark. A Committal Service will be held at the Fayetteville National Cemetery at 2 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Highland Christian Church. Arrangements by Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences can be shared online at www.funeralmation.com.