Kaare was born in Rorvik Norway on July 21, 1919 to Olaf and Kristine Fornes. He left home at 16 years old and served in the Merchant Marines during World War II from 1939-1945. He was a Purple Heart recipient and also received a combat medal with stars. Kaare was wounded in Africa and while in recovery was visited by General George Patton who shook his hand and thanked him for his service. Kaare was the only one in his family to immigrate to America (1945). While on furlough in Brooklyn, he met Hilma Zettergren. Six weeks later they married in June 1945. They relocated to Staten Island and enjoyed 55 years together. Kaare was a member of the Eltingville Lutheran Church in Staten Island. He was a skilled knot maker and his work has been exhibited in the GJOA Club, The Scandinavian East Coast Museum, The Maritime Museum in Minnesota, and the South Street Seaport in New York. As much as he loved this country, his closeness to his family in Norway always continued. He visited every three years, and was fortunate that they came to visit here as well. In 2005 Kaare moved to Brandywine Assistant Living to be closer to his son Robert. He presently maintained his membership at the GJOA Club in Brooklyn, the American Merchant Marine Veterans Organization and the VFW in Freehold, Post 4374. Kaare was a fun loving, happy man, full of integrity and pride. He was always supportive of his family and country. Kaare is predeceased by his beloved wife Hilma. He is survived by his loving children, his son Robert and wife Christine, from Manalapan NJ, and his daughter Joan Maviglia and husband Pat, from Parkland Fl. Devoted grandfather to four grandsons, Robert, Darren, Steven and Evan, two great-grandchildren, extended family, and a loving family in Norway. Thanks to the exceptional staff at Brandywine for the love and care they provided. A special thank you to Dr. Pass (the Magician who gave us more time with a man so loved) and Nurse Pamela. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 5:00 to 9:00PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel. A funeral service will be held Wednesday 10:00AM at the funeral home. Interment will be in Moravian Cemetery, Staten Island. In Lieu of flowers, donations to The Wounded Warriors Project would be appreciated. www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate