Charlie Forster, long time Buena Vista banker and community activist, has died.
Forster was involved in community affairs and civic improvements in Buena Vista, Salida and Poncha Springs from the time he first came to Chaffee County in 1985.
Charlie was recognized by the Chaffee County Board of Commissioners this past December for his outstanding service to the community.
The proclamation recognized his tangible works and dedication to people that has inspired the next generation of leaders.
When presenting the proclamation, Commissioner Greg Felt noted that in addition to leading and growing Collegiate Peaks Bank as its former Chair and Chief Executive Officer, that Forster’s dedication has meant invaluable service on the hospital board, in helping restore the health of the Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center, in the expansion of the Chaffee County Fairgrounds, and in rescuing the historic building that has become the Salida SteamPlant.
Forster served on the El Pomar Foundation representing the Central Peaks Region. In the past few years, he championed the development of Collegiate Commons, the new affordable housing complex in Buena Vista.
In accepting the honor from Chaffee County, Charlie said, “I look back over time and I was just a focused guy and when I say today that I’m very content with where I am, I am. I’ve always said the number of days you have is far less important that what you do with those days. I am proud of what I’ve been involved with.”
Services for Charlie Forster have not been announced.
