mobanmarketEAST END, NY — A broken-hearted East End community is mourning the loss of a beloved mariner and fisherman, Captain Mike Forman, who touched countless lives.
A GoFundMe, “Donate In Memory of Captain Mike Forman,” was created by Avril Fox to help the family he left behind, including his wife Laura Jensen.
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“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of Captain Mike Forman,” Fox said.
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Forman, 63, tragically lost his life in a Sunrise Highway crash on Monday, January 8, she said. “He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, community, and all who knew and loved him,” Fox wrote.
She added: “Mike was a devoted husband, father and friend. He was always willing to help others and was there for anyone who needed it. Now it’s time to return the favor. He had a wry sense of humor and was an animal lover, he especially loved his dogs Huck and Finn.”
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As the family navigates through the immense pain and loss, Fox said, they have found themselves confronted with the unexpected financial burden of arranging Forman’s funeral and memorial service.
“We are starting this GoFundMe and reaching out to our community, friends and anyone touched by Mike’s presence to help alleviate some of the monetary strain and stress for Laura and the family, and to give Mike the farewell he deserves. Your generous contributions will directly support the funeral expenses and his requested wishes.”
Funeral services will take place at the Scott Rothwell Funeral Home, located at 20 Ponquogue Avenue in Hampton Bays. Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 13, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A private cremation will follow.
On the East End, many shared memories of a man known as a dedicated mariner and friend. “I think that Mike was one of the most sportsmanlike fishermen in the fleet,” said Southampton Town Trustee President Scott Horowitz. “Not only was he an absolute gentleman, he was a master at the craft. As president of the Shinnecock Marlin and Tuna Club, a position that I personally held for over a decade, I could always count on Mike to participate in any fishing activity that had a benefit to the community.”
He added that he remembered presenting the “Capt. of the Year” award to Chuck Forman, Forman’s late father. “The two were a very respected father and son team. They fished the offshore waters of the Atlantic on the Sandra Jean,” he said. “Having lost my own father when I was very young, I always appreciated seeing them out there together, and I am glad they enjoyed that special time together. They were excellent role models for the fleet.”
Horowitz said he was proud to see Forman working in the marine industry, “and actually encouraging it. Anyone that got advice from Mike on boat handling, fishing, boat maintenance or anything related, got information from someone who was the reel deal.(Spelling error intended).”
And, said Horowitz: “There will be a lifetime of stories to tell, as a lifetime of memories were made. Hopefully, the tradition of fathers and sons’ offshore fishing will live on. Rest in peace, Capt Mike. You will be with me in the canyons.”
Added Fox: “Please consider donating if you are able, and keep Mike and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.
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