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Walter G. “Bill” Fornea passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, in Madisonville, LA in the loving care of family at the age of 89. Although his courageous battle with cancer has now ended, he has left behind the memory and example of what it meant to be a humble servant of the Lord.

Bill was born to Linnie Stallings and Joseph Russ Fornea on June 22, 1934. Bill was a graduate of Varnado High School Class of 1953; he joined the Army soon after and became a part of the Army Security Agency and Military Police. He later attended Louisiana Tech and graduated with a degree in Forestry. He then began his 35-year long career in public service with the U.S. Forest Service. As a Forester he fought many fires throughout our country, including the Yellowstone Fires of 1988. A devoted family man, he married his wife Kathryn Grace Givens in November 1956 and spent fifty-five and a half years at her side. Together they had one son Walter G. “Little Bill” Fornea, Jr. Not one to be kept indoors, Bill enjoyed spending time hiking, hunting, fishing, and growing food in his garden for himself and others. Although Bill was a man of few words, he always showed his character through action. He enjoyed spending quality time with his loved ones teaching them life skills and hobbies. His family and friends will always remember his clever nature as he never passed up an opportunity to make a quip or play a lighthearted prank.

Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn; their son Little Bill. Bill is survived by two grandsons: his eldest grandson Nathaniel Russ Fornea, wife Mikayla, and their daughter Ivy Grace. His youngest grandson Michael J Fornea, his wife Lauren, and their daughter Liliana, due early next year; a daughter-in-law Carolyn Fornea.  He is also survived by his sister Fay Fornea Dupuy and a very special niece, Mary Helen Williams and her husband Bob.  In addition, he also leaves behind many cherished family members, church members, and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Bill’s visitation to be held at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home on Saturday, December 30, 2023, starting at 1:00 P.M. with a funeral service at 3:00 P.M with Rev. Lloyd Whitman and Dr. Bryant Barnes officiating the service.  Interment to follow at Old Fornea Cemetery with military graveside rites being performed by American Legion Magic City Post #24, followed by a Celebration of Life at First Baptist Church in Angie, LA.

Bill’s family would like to give their heartfelt appreciation to a special niece, Mary Helen Williams and his caretakers, Ralph and Pat Harris for all their love and care in his time of need.