Joann Jean Vackaro Forsyth, age 93, passed away February 15, 2024. She was born November 7, 1930 to John and Lena Vackaro. 

Born and raised in Pontiac, Joann’s love for her community kept her relationships strong. Having continued friendships since kindergarten, with three of her best friends still with us, lifelong connections were treasured. Joann graduated from Pontiac Central High School and went on to study at Michigan State University.

While walking in the neighborhood, Joann met Edward Forsyth. A whirlwind romance ensued and the two were married just three months later. Ed was called to serve in the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Joann and the couple started their life’s journey together. They created a loving family and were blessed with three children.

A wonderful wife and dedicated mother, Joann was ever present. Her kindness and understanding throughout her days made her the perfect person to talk to. A great listener, she was open to different perspectives and made conversation easy. Her compassionate and empathetic nature was genuine, and she never said no to a new adventure, big or small. Joann managed to sprinkle in a little humor along the way, with her children remembering her famous “shortcuts”, as she was just a tad bit directionally challenged. As the Spartans number one fan, she looked forward to rooting for her favorite alma mater while watching the team’s sports. She enjoyed hosting friends and family and was truly the “host with the most”.

After the children had grown enough to be on their own, Joann made her way back to college, earning her bachelor's degree. She was a substitute teacher for a while, particularly focusing on speech. After that, she made a career in the touring industry. Working for a friend, she became a worldwide tour guide and loved every minute of it. With this new experience came plenty of opportunities for travel. She and Ed traveled extensively, with their favorite being Italy. The couple even took their family along on one special occasion to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary. There they met extended family members and learned of their history from generations before. Joann and Ed also traveled with dear friends, Bob and Mary Bego. In later years, Joann would enjoy traveling with her daughter, Jyl.

In Joann’s early travels to Italy, she became interested in the origins of Pinocchio. She became an avid fan of the story and remained fascinated ever since. Although Joann liked to share her interests with others, she loved to speak highly of those closest to her as well. She was known for her exceptional public speaking skills, a talent of which she was very proud. Her ability to capture a crowd’s attention with such grace led her to speak at a number of engagements, such as class reunions and the beautiful eulogies she gave in honor of close family and friends.

Because Joann took such exceptional care of herself, she was able to remain active up until the days of her final illness. She stayed true to walking her half hour daily and continued to enjoy all the great things life had offered her. Her self-proclaimed greatest achievement, however, were her “three wonderful children”. She was so proud of them and the love they returned to the best mom they could ever ask for.

Joann was the beloved wife of the late Edward E. Forsyth. Loving mother of Jyl (Brett Blanchard), Edward, and Robert. Proud grandmother of Edward B. Forsyth. Dear sister of John (Carole) Vackaro.

Visitation for Joann will be held on Sunday, February 25th, from 11:00 a.m., until the time of her Funeral Service at 12:00 p.m., at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills.

Please consider planting a memorial tree in Joann’s honor through The Trees Remember Planting Memorial Trees in National Forests - The Trees Remember