Ernest "Bud" Forton, 84, of Manistee, died early Sunday morning, June 10, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on Jan. 2, 1934 to the late Charles and Florence (Fleece) Forton in Traverse City.

He was a graduate of Traverse City Central High School where he played football for the Trojans during his high school years. In his younger years Bud was a manager at the Tempo and Gambles Stores in Traverse City. He was owner and operator of the Cedar Bar in Cedar and most recent was an agent for the AFLAC Insurance Company until his retirement. One of his favorite past times was fishing in the area and was a sports enthusiast who loved to watch sporting events and sports news show on TV. Bud was a member of the Divine Mercy Parish, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Shrine Church, of Manistee.

He is survived by Suzanne M. Feasel of Manistee, two sons and daughters-in-law; Gregg and Jane Forton, of Virginia and Timothy and Diane Forton, of Traverse City; six grandchildren; his extended children, Michelle and Jeff Hansen and Angie Koon; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive him.

Bud was also preceded in death by his son, Gary Forton and several brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 14, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee, with the Rev. Larry Sergott officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery also in Manistee. Relatives and friends will pray the Rosary at the funeral home on Thursday morning at 9:30 a.m., where the family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.