Willard “Pinky” Forbus went home to be with our Lord on October 14, 2025 at the age of 90. He was surrounded by family. Willard was born on October 5, 1935 to Jack and Nettie Forbus in Heber Springs, Arkansas. In 1949 the family moved to California and settled in Newman. After attending Orestimba High School he went to Moler Barber College in Stockton. Willard then enlisted in the United States Army serving during the Korean War as a helicopter mechanic. He kept his barber skills tuned up giving haircuts to his fellow servicemen.

After serving in the Army he worked in Patterson as a barber, eventually opening his own shop in 1966 in Crows Landing. In 1972 he moved his shop to Newman. He was happy to have his daughter follow in his footsteps and she joined him in 1996. They worked together until he simi-retired in 1999. 

He is preceded in death by his father Jack and his mother Nettie. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia, daughter Lisa Forbus of Newman, sons Steve (Gail) Forbus of Lemoore and Kenny Forbus of Newman, as well as 6 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, and his sister Doris Brewer and her daughter Erika of Modesto. 

Willard was a long time member of the VFW, Mooselodge, and the morning McDonald’s coffee crew. He attended the Orestimiba Presbyterian Church. He was quite an artist and would often doodle cartoons in between clients and display them in his shop. Willard enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling. He loved old cars and had a 1966 red mustang convertable that he took many joy rides in with friends and family. He enjoyed talking with people, a good story, and a good laugh.

Visitation will be held on October 24th at Hillview Funeral Chapel in Newman from 4 to 6pm.

Burial will be private.

A celebration of life will be held at the Orestimba Presbyterian Church, Newman, October 25th at 11:00am.