Vernon W. “Vern” Forman

Vernon W. “Vern” Forman of the Town of Port Washington passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the age of 80.

He was born the beloved son of Wayne and Geneva Jo (Matthews) Forman in Butler, Pa., on Nov. 18, 1945.

Vern was united in marriage to Anne Eggleston on Valentine’s Day 1995.

Vern had a passion for helping others, especially veterans. He was a veterans advocate/substance abuse counselor for many years at the VA hospital in Milwaukee, Wis. Vern had 42-plus years of sobriety, affording him the opportunity to support and sponsor others working on getting and staying sober. His experience in recovery work was a comfort to many and something he and his family were very proud of.

He flew airplanes and was a helicopter gunner for his 21-month tour in Vietnam.

Vern had a short passion for wrestling bears, even though he always lost those fights. He was a charter boat fisherman for more than half of his life and taught many, many people how to fish. In his spare time, he rode Harleys, enjoyed eating the hottest of foods (If his taste buds weren’t burning, it wasn’t hot enough!) and participated in honoring his fallen brothers and current service people whenever possible, including an especially meaningful trip on the Honor Flight for his military service.

Vern’s memory will remain in the hearts of his devoted wife Anne, children Kelly Forman-Anderson (Brian), Kathy Forman, Brian Forman (Shannon), Timbre Severson, Amy Storm (David) and Alex Hajduk (Jenny) and 14 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his fellow Vietnam brothers and his beloved dog Zorro.

Vern didn’t just leave behind tackle boxes and sea stories; he left behind a passion for the outdoors that burns brightly in the hearts of those he loved. Because of him, the woods feel like home and the water feels like sanctuary. Fair winds and following seas, Captain. You’ve earned your rest, but your spirit will always be found in the ripple of the current and the pull of the line.

A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, WI 53074. The family will receive friends and relatives at the funeral home from 2 to 4 p.m. Full military honors will immediately follow the service.

Eernisse Funeral Home of Port Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.