GiaQuinta statement on the passing of former State Rep. Dan Forestal
INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) released the following statement regarding the passing of his colleague and friend, former State Representative Dan Forestal (D-Indianapolis):
“I was devastated to hear the news of former Representative Forestal's passing. He was a great legislator and dedicated public servant who accomplished great things for his community during his time at the Statehouse.
“From his legislation addressing urban blight in Indiana neighborhoods to serving as the leading voice for House Democrats on transportation issues, Forestal worked hard for Hoosiers across the state. He will be remembered for his dedication to making Indiana a better place to work and raise a family.
“His friendship will be missed by many and my thoughts are with his loved ones during this time.”
About Dan Forestal
State Representative Dan Forestal lived in Indiana House District 100 nearly his entire life and was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives on November 6, 2012.
Forestal served as a lieutenant with the Indianapolis Fire Department, a bailiff in Marion County Superior Court 11 and as a guard at Marion County Jail II. He also ran a small business that bought and rehabilitated abandoned homes in Indianapolis.
Forestal dedicated his life to serving his community. He was an active member in Firefighters Local 416, the International Association of Firefighters and the Indianapolis Fire Department’s Emerald Society. Forestal’s community involvement included working with Habitat for Humanity, the Knights of Columbus and the Wheeler Mission. He received the Good Neighbor Award from the Community Heights Neighborhood in his district.
A graduate of Roncalli High School, Forestal also received his associate’s degree in fire science from Ivy Tech Community College, a degree in public safety administration from IUPUI and a degree in public administration from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
At the Indiana Statehouse, Forestal served as assistant Democratic whip and was the Ranking Democratic Member of the House Roads and Transportation Committee.