William Dell Forrester

William (Bill) Dell Forrester, age 76, of Olathe, KS passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 in his Olathe home. He was born December 22, 1948 in Kansas City, MO son of the late Melvin and Maree (Rogers) Forrester. On July 4th, 2002, in Olathe Bill married Jeannette Ann Novogradic Redmond who preceded him in death on November 14, 2011. Bill is survived by his former wife, Janis Armstrong Smith of Ottawa Ks.

Bill grew up in Shawnee Mission and eventually moved to Olathe Ks where he helped build his father's Lake Olathe home and graduated from Olathe high school. Bill worked as a tool and die machinist for most of his life building molds for many common items including water bottle caps, vehicle tail light lenses, and air brake couplings. Bill's hobbies included working on cars, playing cards and games with family and friends, and amassing a large collection of sea shells and unique minerals.

His greatest passions, however, were devoted to riding his motorcycle, display fireworks and being a professional Santa Clause. Bill enjoyed the open road, taking many bike trips with his friend Ed that included the Grand Canyon, Sturgis South Dakota, and the Cassidy Kansas Biker Rally. He campaigned for, planned, and shot the 4th of July fireworks display for the City of Olathe for over 3 decades, and many other smaller displays in the area. Finally, Bill created a legacy as one of the most beloved Santa's in the KC area. He visited corporate holiday functions, day cares, schools, hospitals, malls, and private residences sharing joy with children everywhere, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of young and old alike.

He is survived by his son, Noel Forrester and wife Dawn of Osawatomie Ks, daughter Heather Silvey and husband Steven of Carrollton Tx, two step-children; Deanna Kimbley of Olathe KS, and Mike Redmond and wife Jenny of Phoenix AZ, 14 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two siblings; Bruce Forrester of Overland Park Ks, and Kimberly Goodsell and husband Danny of Hillsdale KS.

He was also preceded in death by his eldest son William Dell Forrester II, and grandson Ashton Cole Forrester.

A celebration of his life and reception will be held on Saturday, July 12th, from 12:00 to 4:00pm at Hope Chapel, South Black Bob Rd, in Olathe, KS.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Toys-for-Tots.

To leave a message of condolence for Bill's family, or to share a special memory please visit the guestbook.