Forrest Helmer Kjemhus

Forrest Helmer Kjemhus, age 101, of Portland, Oregon, took his final journey on January 29th, embraced by the love of his family.

He was born on December 16, 1923, in Crookston, Minnesota, the son of the late Helmer and Lillian Rose Kjemhus.

Forrest lived a long, full life. He had an incredible ability to make people feel welcome, whether with a joke, a warm smile, or a simple act of generosity.

Forrest grew up in Oregon City, Oregon, where he attended school with his older brother, Wayne. After graduating from high school in 1942, he answered the call to serve his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Upon completing his military service, he continued his education at the University of Oregon, earning his degree in 1947.

In 1960, Forrest married his cherished wife, Nancy M. Gassman, and together they built a loving home where they raised their three children.

Forrest built his career in the automobile industry and, in 1967, relocated his family to The Dalles, Oregon. There, he spent 20 years as the principal owner of Forrest Pontiac-Buick-GMC-Jeep-Subaru, Inc. Beyond his success in business, he was a respected leader, a trusted friend, and a mentor to many in the community.

In retirement, Forrest and Nancy split their time between Manzanita and Portland, Oregon, creating a warm and welcoming home in both places for family and friends. Forrest found joy in peaceful walks along the beach, getting lost in a good book, and tending to his vibrant garden, which often caught the admiration of neighbors who stopped by to chat. His love for nature, simple pleasures, and meaningful connections reflected the heart of who he was.

Forrest is survived by his wife, Nancy; his son, Michael Kjemhus, along with his children, Chad (Morgan) and Jack, and great-grandchildren, Scout and Poppy, as well as his partner, Michelle; his daughter, Karen Kjemhus-Spahr, and her husband, Arthur; and his daughter, Jan Reiten, and her husband, Christopher, along with their children, Hailey (Jackson), Olivia, and Sophia.

To honor Forrest’s memory, the family encourages acts of kindness, laughter, and time spent with loved ones—just as he would have wanted.

The family gathered for a private service to honor Forrest at the chapel at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.