Forest Helsturm (b. April 13, 1951), also known as Steven Davison, passed away peacefully in his home on July 22, 2024.
Most recently employed as a groundskeeper and gardener, Forest was known as a jack-of-all-trades, working as a fire lookout, English teacher, assistant winemaker, woodworker, and barista among other jobs throughout his life.
Forest wrote “Above all and everything is art!” and his friends knew him as a passionate appreciator. Whether it was his enthusiastic applause after a concert, his effusive praise of a local artisan, his admiration of a good glass of wine, or his thorough celebration over a piece of writing, he made sure to spread his delight in the arts wherever he lived, from coast to coast.
He also loved humor: Mark Twain, Eddie Izzard, Paula Poundstone, Mel Blunt. And he often referred to himself as a “contrary;” he liked to offer opposing opinions, to consider things in new and different ways. He was always ready with a joke and it was rare to see Forest without his infectious smile.
While his woodwork was intricate and stunning, his own artistic focus was always on writing. He leaves behind reams of nonfiction and memoir, chronicling his many adventures that range from rehabbing an A-Frame house in Ohio to helping his friend work a farm in Tuscany.
Forest’s memory will be celebrated for years to come by his many friends spread across the globe. He will be remembered as an energetic and resilient man who always put others above himself.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024, from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Cypress Hill Winery, 51 E 4th Street, Mansfield, OH 44902.
Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, ltd., 1106 Park Avenue East, Mansfield, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.wernergompf.com
Funeral Home: Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, ltd.
Website: www.wernergompf.com