Robert J. Forand, Sr. Ret. JFD

Robert J Forand Sr. Batt. Chief JFD (ret.), 72, passed away at his home surrounded by his devoted family on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Oliver and Catherine (Peckenham) Forand.

Robert proudly served his country in the US Army’s 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized-The Red Diamond) during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged after serving overseas. He carried his experiences from the war with him and used those moments as a springboard that would ultimately benefit hundreds of RI veterans through Operation Stand Down RI. As Treasurer/Vice President, he was an intricate part of the leadership team for over 30 years and had two homes dedicated to him in 2022.

Robert worked as a firefighter in his hometown of Johnston, rising through the ranks to become Battalion Chief in 1996. He was Secretary/Treasurer of Johnston Firefighters Local 1950 from 1984-1990. He retired from the Johnston Fire Department in 1998, after serving his community and nobly working his dream job for 27 years.

Robert always had a keen interest in caring for his yard, a hobby that truly became a passion upon his retirement. He was a Rhode Island Rose Society member, spending the spring and summer months tending to his 250 award-winning roses. Often, passersby would pull over to gaze at his beautiful yard. Many would talk to him, learning as much as they could from his expertise.

Robert’s greatest achievement was his loving family. He worked tirelessly to provide for his wife and three children. He would support and brag about their endeavors and was eager to hear about their successes. He spent many hours attending games and events for his children and grandchildren. His family was his first priority and he was a genuine role model of human decency. Everyone who encountered him was truly blessed.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Gail (Castaldi) Forand and children Melynda Johnson of North Scituate, Lisa Underwood (Michael) of Warwick and Robert Jr. (Lisa) of Warwick and his beloved grandchildren, Dylan, Matthew and Kassidy. His in-laws, Theresa Castaldi and the late Salvatore Castaldi; siblings Cecelia Nimblett, Doris Olsen (Gary), James Forand (Doreen) and the late Olivia Martucci. His sisters-in-law Joan McKeon (Andrew) and Karyn Castaldi, and many nieces, nephews and friends.

His funeral will leave Friday, March 31, 2023, at 10:00 am from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am at St. Kevin Church, 333 Sandy Lane, Warwick. Burial in Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter with full military honors will follow. VISITING HOURS will be held on Thursday from 4:00- 7:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Operation Stand Down RI: 1010 Hartford Ave Johnston, RI 02919; Rhode Island Fire Chief’s Honor Flight Hub: PO Box 28132, Providence, RI 02908 or the Scituate High School baseball team, Scituate Booster Club: PO Box 94, Scituate, RI 02857.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.