Carl Foerster, 74, of North Plainfield, NJ, passed away at JFK Hospital on December 26th, 2020 after battling COVID. Carl grew up in Plainfield, NJ and graduated from Plainfield High School, then proceeded to graduate from Grove City College with a BA, and the University of Buffalo with a JD. He worked for the Veteran’s Administration in Newark, NJ for 35 years, ending his career as an adjudicator and member of the appeals board before retiring in 2008.

Carl was a very special man, who was uniquely kind, humble and loving. He had a quiet strength and positive attitude and took great joy in spending time with his family. He will be remembered in millions of ways, including his tireless devotion to his family, friends, church, and Boy Scouts. He dedicated 61 years to Scouting, as both a participant and as a leader. He served as the Scout Master of Troop 5 in Plainfield for 44 years, attaining many noteworthy recognitions and awards, including the God & Service Award, Silver Beaver Award, Whitney Young Urban Scouting National Award, District Award of Merit, and District Scouter’s Key. He served as a kind and gentle mentor and role model for many. He was also very active at United Presbyterian Church for decades, serving in various long-term roles as a Deacon, Member of the Finance Committee, Assistant Treasurer, Cemetery and Memorial supervisor, and as a member of the Administration Committee. In his early days, he was also involved with the Plainfield Jaycees, Plainfield Chorus and Army Reserves. His service to others was a defining characteristic of his life and his legacy.

Carl is predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Charles Foerster and his sister, Virginia Baker. He is survived by his wife and the love of his life, Helen Foerster, his brother Robert Foerster and Sister-in-Law Maryanne Foerster, his Brother-in-Law Jack Perry and Sister-in-Law Marianna Perry, his children Chuck and Leslie Bishop, Son-in-Law Bill Mote, his grandchildren William and Allison Bishop-Mote, as well as his nieces and nephews: Karen & Matt Lewis, Robert Foerster Jr., Donald & Andrea Baker, Brian & Allison Baker, Jean Neumann, Jean & Victor Greenberg, and John Perry.

Due to the pandemic, the burial service will be private and for immediate family only. There will be a Zoom memorial at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either United Presbyterian Church of Plainfield, United Presbyterian Church of Plainfield Deacon's Fund, or to Boy Scout Troop 5 at United Presbyterian Church of Plainfield to 525 East Front Street, Plainfield, NJ 07060.