FORSYTH, ROBERT S.

Robert Stewart Forsyth, 93, of Pinehurst, passed away at his home Monday, Sept. 26, 2016.

Visitation will be held at the Boles Funeral Home in Southern Pines on Wednesday, 6–8 p.m. A graveside ceremony will be held at Pinelawn Memorial Park, Southern Pines, on Thursday at 3 p.m.

Mr. Forsyth was born on Long Island, N.Y., on Aug. 21, 1923. He was the son of the late Gordon and Janet (Milne) Forsyth.

Robert served his country in the U.S. Marines, where he earned the rank of first lieutenant. He served in the 1st War Dog Platoon of the 3rd Marine Raiders and was the last known surviving dog handler during World War II. During the Korean conflict, Robert was an executive officer of a tank brigade.

An avid golfer, he and his wife, Jane, moved to Pinehurst in 1987, where he was a member of the Tin Whistles.

Mr. Forsyth spent many years in the sport of showing dogs. Joining forces with Jane, they became the only husband-wife team of handlers to win Westminster. Together they were winners of Ken L. Biskit Couple of the Year Award. They co-authored “A Guide to Successful Dog Showing.” Robert was a highly decorated all-breed judge for the American Kennel Club. He won many awards throughout his career, including Westminster Kennel Club, Best in Show, three-time winner of Handler of the Year in Kennel Review; and was proud kennel owner of Grayarlin.

Mr. Forsyth was predeceased by his wife, Jane Forsyth; son John R. Forsyth; and brother Gordon Forsyth and his wife Helen. He is survived by his daughter Sioux Forsyth-Green and her husband, Pete; one grandson, Bryce Everett Stone; two nieces, Marylee Edelman and Hope Forsyth-Jayes; and one nephew, Gordon J. Forsyth Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Take the Lead, P.O. Box 6353, Watertown, NY 13601; or FirstHealth Hospice, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374.

Boles Funeral Home and Crematory of Southern Pines will be assisting the family.