Mara L. (Zankel) Forrester

Mara L. Forrester, age 61, of North Fayette Township, Imperial, PA, passed away on Friday morning, April 3, 2026. Mara was born in McKees Rocks, PA, on June 27, 1964, daughter to the late Sandra (Colacino) and Paul Zankel; devoted wife to the late Lewis E. Forrester who passed on July 19, 2021; beloved mother to Gary Forrester, Ann (Brandon) Mihalik, Lewis Forrester Jr., and Beth Ann Forrester; adored grandmother to Wyatt, Landon, Hunter, Jourdyn “JoJo,” and Evelyn; sister to Cheryl Meanor, Paul (Cindy) Zankel, Perry Zankel, and Ross Zankel.

Mara brought fun, love, and enjoyment to everything she touched. She enjoyed going to parks, the swimming pool, and simply being outside, and she was never happier than when doing these things with her five grandchildren. Mara’s face would light up with a smile brighter than the sun when speaking about Wyatt, Landon, Hunter, JoJo, and Evelyn. Her love of family and friends was inspirational and showed people what unconditional love really was. 

When not spending time with her family, Mara was working at Merakey. There, she formed many strong bonds and developed close friendships with her coworkers, many of whom she loved like family. Her love of the residents was without question. She often spoke of how happy they made her, how proud she was when they achieved their goals, and how their outlook on life was so inspiring regardless of the conditions. Mara found something that she truly loved, taking care of others, and turned it into a career that lasted over 30 years. 

With her passing, her family would appreciate for everyone that knew Mara not to mourn her loss, but rejoice and feel grateful and blessed for having known her. Remember the amazing times when she made you smile, laugh, and revealed what an amazing person she was. Even when losing the love of her life, Big Lou, Mara's love never wavered but it actually grew. She never missed a beat nor stopped being the best version of herself. Mara will forever be in her family’s hearts and thoughts, and they will continue to love each other as they know she would expect.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, between the hours of 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at HERRICK COMPASSIONATE FUNERAL SERVICE, PC, Edward M. Herrick, Supervisor/Owner, 951 Cliff Mine Road, North Fayette Township, Imperial, PA, (724) 695-7332, followed by a Funeral Service, at 7:00 p.m. Mara’s committal will take place at a later date at Robinson Church Cemetery in Bulger, PA.

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