Walter L. Forward Jr.

Walter L. Forward, Jr. Walter "Buzz" Forward passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve after an extended illness. He was to celebrate his 91st birthday on New Year's Eve, testament that he truly lived a rich and rewarding life. Born in Oakland, California, the son of Walter and Harriet Forward, he is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Doris, his three children, Marcia Ward, Peggy Lagomarsini (Tom) and Todd Forward, five grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Baker of Camarillo, California. Buzz was a true patriot in every sense of the word - loyal to Doris and his family, dedicated to his friends, and so very proud to be an American. He was a graduate of the University of Southern California and remained a fierce and loyal fan of the Trojans all his life. While at USC, he was a member of the Theta Xi fraternity and Trojan Knights. Being a self-employed developer and banker was his vocation, but his avocation was politics: he served as Director of the Federal Housing Administration under President Dwight Eisenhower and ran for Congress in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles. His life-long love of horses was evident in the many horseback rides he took along the Malibu Canyon and in becoming President of the Santa Monica Mounted Police, a treasured accomplishment. A nod to his cultural side, he also loved opera, playing the guitar and violin, and singing in the church choir. Buzz lit up with pride and joy the most when talking about his dear Doris. He and Doris were filled with love and smiles in recent years as they grew closer to their Campus Commons and Fremont Presbyterian Church communities. At his request, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Sacramento SPCA or Fremont Presbyterian Church.