Obituary of Dorothy May Forbus

Dorothy was born in North East, PA the second child of Clayton and Ruby Gierke. While she was a young girl she had training in acting, voice, dance and piano. Her uncle, Hewitt Marsh got her on the stage in the early 1930's. She would sing to the vaudeville audience while the stage props were being changed. She also sang on a Saturday morning children's program, Uncle Charley's Radio Show. Dorothy went on to the Syracuse University in New York where she continued her voice studies. There she studied opera and was promoted as an American Dramatic Soprano. She gave recitals in New York and in Los Angeles, CA during the 1940's. Her stage name was Dorothy Garrick. She had a studio in Hollywood where she taught voice and had a contract with Paramount Studios. Dorothy met Dan Forbus, a navy ensign, during a concert in Syracuse. They corresponded while he served his country during World War II. They were reunited when he came to Los Angeles after the war, marrying in June 1947. They were in Los Angeles until the Navy in 1953 brought Dan to Santa Cruz, where he was in command of the Naval Reserve Center. Dorothy continued to use her vocal talents, leading a children's choir at the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Cruz, singing in the adult choir, the Scotts Valley Cavalcade, Valley Musicals and Seniorama. Until recently, she led the membership of the Santa Cruz Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, in the singing of God Bless America at the dinner meetings. Besides Dorothy's beautiful voice, she was known for the lovely gowns she created for her performances and the wonderful parties she and Dan hosted throughout Dan's career in the Navy. As well as raising four children, she helped Dan during his Santa Cruz County Supervisor election bids and worked as an ERA real estate agent. Dorothy is survived by her children, Debbie Todd (Sam), Don Forbus (Chris), Darlene Forbus and DeVonna Meyer. She is also survived by her grandsons, David Forbus, Daniel Forbus, Kirk Meyer and Dustin Meyer. She was able to enjoy her four great grandchildren as well. Her husband Dan passed away in 1991. She will be laid to rest beside Dan in a private ceremony at Soquel Cemetery. Any kind acts of charity may be made in Dorothy's memory to the Branciforte Fire Building Fund, 2711Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.