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MICHAEL (MIKE) WILLIAM FORBES  Obituary pic

MICHAEL (MIKE) WILLIAM FORBES

Born: Jun 19, 1975

Date of Passing: Sep 19, 2012

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MICHAEL (MIKE) WILLIAM FORBES June 19, 1975 - September 19, 2012 Peacefully, with his family at his side, Mike passed away at his parents' home in La Salle, on Wednesday September 19, 2012, after a 12 year battle with cancer. We lost a young man who was intelligent, fun, witty, kind, positive, courageous and loving. Mike is survived by his parents Bev Stewart of Beausejour, and Don and Lynne Forbes of La Salle and his partner Kwok Choy. Also mourning his passing are his grandmother Gladys McKim, aunts and uncles, Barry and Juanita McKim, Dean and Karen McKim, Barb and Bill Elliott, Judy and Peter Stockdale, Brian and Jeannette Tancock, many cousins, and his special lifelong friends: his brothers Darren Macdonald, Dave Greason and Jamie Maclennan; his sister , Gitan Armour, and many, many friends. Mike attended Westwood Collegiate and earned his Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in 1997 at University of Manitoba, and later his MBA from Queen's University in 2008 and the CMA designation in 2009. Most of his working career was in the family video business, Pick-A-Flick. He started part time at age 12, and after graduating, became the General Manager. He was hard working and dedicated, and with his Dad, grew the business, ran their Subway franchise for a few years, and particularly enjoyed the people - working with the many great staff and customers over the years. As the video business slowed, he moved on, and in the fall of 2009 he became the Assistant Controller at Warehouse One's Head Office, until his cancer treatments forced him to stop working in March 2011. Mike enjoyed many sports, the competition and especially the comradery. Even after his leg amputation, he still played floor hockey, ultimate and tennis, and took up curling. He spent many wonderful times playing bridge with his mom, and more recently, Catan , with anybody! Mike's life felt complete when he met his partner, Kwok. In spite of many difficult medical times over the last 18 months, he and Kwok were able to take an extended road trip vacation this past winter. It was a very special time. Mike's special cause was the Terry Fox Run, as a volunteer and speaker, and he was always generous with his time for others who were also fighting cancer. We, the family, would like to extend our sincere appreciation to his doctors, Dr. Ralph Wong and his assistant Kathy; Dr. Tan, Dr. Schroeder; and also to Dr. Arnt and Dr. Laack at the Mayo Clinic. Mike had so many friends that meant so much to him. To all of you, know how much you were cherished. A service to honour Mike's life will be held on Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at 5:00 p.m. at Breezy Bend Golf Club, 7620 Roblin Blvd., Headingly. If friends so desire, in memory of Mike, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or the Terry Fox Foundation. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 22, 2012

Condolences & Memories (34 entries)

  • He was so kind. Though we did not have much time together, I feel a great loss, and great privilege to have known him. May his memory stay alive in the hearts of his friends and family. - Posted by: Matthew (Friend) on: Sep 19, 2014

  • Please pass this Email on to Michael's father, Don Forbes - We are all, your old friends, so extremely sad to hear of Michael's passing. We send our prayers and condolences to you, Don, with heartfelt sympathy. Please know we all care. Sharon and all the "old" gang. Years go by, but feelings never change! - Posted by: Sharon Roblin (old friend of Michael's Father, Don) on: Oct 19, 2012

  • MIKE AND I WORKED TOGETHER AT PICK-A FLICK ,,, EVERY MONDAY WAS A GOOD DAY BECAUSE I KNEW HE WAS COMING AND WE WOULD GET TO LAUGH, SMILE AND JOKE AROUND !! HE BRIGHTENED MY DAY, AND WE LAUGHED SO HARD TOGETHER, WE HAD TO WIPE TEARS OFF OUR EYES... HE WAS ONE OF A KIND WARM, AND PATIENT .... I TRULY LOVED HIM, AND I WILL MISS HIM .. MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS PARTNER AND FAMILY!! R.I.P. - Posted by: SHARI GREENBERG (ENPYOYEE AT PICK-A FLICK 2003-2010) on: Oct 18, 2012

  • Every time I saw Mike, he made me feel happy. Mike gave the best hugs - they were always genuine and just gave you such a feeling of friendship. His smile always lit up a room, or the whole outdoors. I only saw Mike a few times a year, but whenever I did I treasured it. I'm honoured for having known him. - Posted by: Corey Quintaine (Friend) on: Oct 05, 2012

  • The best bow legged defencman I ever played with! I'm going to miss you buddy. A true inspiration. - Posted by: Chris Sheppard (Friend) on: Oct 04, 2012

  • I first like to say to don and his family sorry for your loss of a great man. I meet Mike at pick a flick in Charleswood when I was a young girl and he talked to me and my dad everytime we go into the store. When I got older I did my work experience there. Mike I'm going to miss your smiles but I know one day we will meet again in pick a flick in heaven - Posted by: Natalie Dyck (old charlewood buddy) on: Oct 03, 2012

  • Mike was a remarkable person. I was always inspired by his intelligence, kindness, wit and sense of humour. Although it had been many years since we had seen each other, I am saddened that the world has lost someone so special. My deepest condolences to Mike's parents, partner and close friends. The world is a better place for having had Mike in it. - Posted by: Lisa (Knight) Omand (Elementary School Classmate) on: Oct 01, 2012

  • I didn't know Mike for very long - just played briefly on his ball hockey team in early 2011. Much like the volleyball story listed earlier, I did not realize that Mike had an artifical leg until well in the season (and after watching him outhustle and outrun me all that time). That memory of his hard work on the playing field and never letting his illness impact his performance serves as an inspiration to me. I was saddened to hear of his passing, and though I did not know him well, I can only imagine the positive impact he had on others in his life. - Posted by: Thomas Glenwright (Teammate) on: Sep 27, 2012

  • I met Mike years ago at a gay volleyball tournament. Mike's positive friendly personality was immediately apparent but what struck me was I had no idea until well into the tournament he was playing with an artificial leg. I didn't know him well but I recall a lovely dinner with him where he shared his story. He never gave up and kept playing and living life fully despite his prognosis and news of yet another treatment. He is an inspiration to me and I'm sure to all those who knew him. Rest well Mike xo. - Posted by: Rob Cameron (team mate / friend) on: Sep 27, 2012

  • I met Michael when he was a patient at St. Boniface Hospital, after his amputation. I had been called by a nurse and asked to come chat with Mike, as six or so months prior, I had returned from Mayo clinic after my own leg amputation for a similar bone cancer. I was immediatly struck by Mike's amazing smile, his positive outlook, and his energy. Such a privilege to meet Mike, to connect with him over the next few years. He immediatly became involved in supporting other people similarly affected by cancer. His positive outlook was infectious. It is with a very heavy heart and deep sadness that I learned of Michael's passing. My sincerest and deepest sympathies to his family and friends. - Posted by: Sherri Black (Gehon) (Acquaintance/Friend ) on: Sep 26, 2012

  • Dear Bev,Don,lynne & Kwok: Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your beloved Mike! God continue to be with all of you as you walk through your grief is our prayer! - Posted by: Gil & Rhoda Hack & Family (Friends) on: Sep 25, 2012

  • Bev, We are sorry to hear about Michael.We knew him back when he was "Michael". Tony remembers when he would change your milk order to include chocolate milk! - Posted by: Tony & Linda Toews (Friends of Bev's) on: Sep 25, 2012

  • In a time in life when cliques and groups separate us, Mike never judged and always had a smile for everyone. Even from afar he seemed to be one person who knew who he was and what he wanted. He was a great role model for what kids should strive to be in todays world. My condolences to his Family and fellow classmate friends. The world definately lost a great role model of strength and integrity. RIP Mike - Posted by: Jennifer Wach (Classmate) on: Sep 25, 2012

  • Dear Bev, Lynne, Don & Kwok; Please accept our sincere sympathy at this difficult time in your lives with the loss of your beloved Mike. God continue to be with all of you as you walk through your grief is our prayer! - Posted by: Gil & Rhoda Hack & Family (Friends) on: Sep 25, 2012

  • Mike's humor, optimism and warmth helped all of us!  We once had a presentation to 100 peers and professors with almost no time to prepare and even less knowledge of the topic.  Mike, ever positive, didn't flinch and with laughs in stead of grumbles, pulled the two of us through and made the entire inquisition fun!  Anyone who worked with Forbesy has a similar story! I am very privileged to know Mike! - Posted by: Christian Berndt (Classmate at Queen's) on: Sep 25, 2012

  • And thou wert lovely to the last, Extinguish'd, not decay'd; As stars that shoot along the sky Shine brightest as they fall from high. Will miss you Mike, get the potato sacks ready up there and we will race soon. - Posted by: Dan (Friend) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • I am from North Dakota and I played on volleyball tournament teams with Mike and we road tripped together to Calgary and Regina and it was a great time to get to know him. Whenever I hear Blue Rodeo, I think of him. My condolences to his loved ones. He was very easy to like - Posted by: wayne kartes (volleyball teammate and friend) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • While I didn't know Mike all too well, I knew that he had spent many many hours helping out with the Terry Fox Organizaion over the years in many different ways. His efforts assisted greatly in raising thousands of dollars for cancer research. He was indeed a special person and my sympathies go out to his family and his partner. He will be missed. - Posted by: Rob Truthwaite (former Terry Fox Run Organizer, Winnipeg) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • I did not have the opportunity of working with Mike for any great length of time when he was at Warehouse One, but of the short time I did, I realized quite quickly that he was one of those 1% of the people you meet who make a long & lasting impression. Mike's big smile, optimism, selflessness, & regard for everyone he dealt with is what I'll always remember. Peace be with Mike, until we meet again ... - Posted by: Mike Langedock (Colleague at Warehouse One) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • Truly a special person. He has left a footprint in my life. My deepest condolences to his family, he will be missed. Rest well Mike. - Posted by: Lucy Morash (Friend) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. I am so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. I feel very privileged to have known him and been able to spend the time together that we did. I pray the peace that comes from the memories of love shared with him comfort you now and in the days ahead. - Posted by: Patti (Gillies) McNeill (Forever Friend) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • Mike If a life is measured in friendships then Mike, yours is immeasurable.  If a life is measured in love given then yours is limitless.  If a life is measured in courage, positivity, generosity and light then Mike, yours is forever.  You gave and loved and encouraged in one short life more than we could in 10 lifetimes and we were the benefactors.  You are so loved, because you so loved You are so cherished, because you so cherished.  A star that shines as brightly as yours Mike leaves behind a great void.  And we will always miss you...but you will never be gone from us. We will carry on what you have taught us and we will never forget-- how could we--your light remains, your spirit continues to inspire.  Having to part with you is having to face the unthinkable. You were taken from us far too soon but we will love you forever.  Just as we see a star's light for years after the star has burned out--  - Posted by: Suzanne Adalsteinsson (Cousin ) on: Sep 24, 2012

  • You are in my thoughts and prayers. It was an honour to get to know Mike during his time at Queen's. He was kind and giving. - Posted by: Pam Bovey Armstrong (Went to Queen's together) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • My deepest condolences to Mike's friends and family. I worked with Mike at the Charleswood Pick-a-Flick. Mike was a super nice guy and will be missed. My thoughts are with Don and Lynne. - Posted by: Mark Scott (Co-worker ) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • One day Mike said the most amazing thing to me that revolutionized my life. I think about it almost every day... miss you. - Posted by: Peter Paley (Friend) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • I didn't know Mike for that long really, guess a few years, but he was so outgoing and friendly and willing to get to know someone. When he met one of my best friends, Kwok, the light in there eyes was so fantastic to see. Mike will be remembered always. My deepest condolences to Mike's family. He was quite a guy. - Posted by: Curtis Simon (Friend) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • Mike was my family when my own were not. He loved people without conditions. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. I will miss him greatly. Rest well Mike - Posted by: Joseph Skipton Cavanaugh (friend) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • I cannot tell you how sorry I am for the loss of such a great guy. My condolences to Don and Lynne and the rest of Mike's family and friends. - Posted by: Sherri Morier (employee (Pick-A-Flick, 95-2000)) on: Sep 23, 2012

  • Michael was always kind to all of us... Never judged, just treated people with respect!!! May he be at peace and watch over his dear family and friends as an angel above!!! - Posted by: Kirsten Haglund (Classmate) on: Sep 22, 2012

  • Mike was a kind, funny, honest friend in high school. I enjoyed his perspective on life and the talks we had. I can still hear his laugh even after all these years. I will fondly remember going to his grad with him, having the best picnic ever and so many more memories! My deepest sympathies go out to his family and his partner. He will be missed. - Posted by: Lynnette (Friend) on: Sep 22, 2012

  • Our deepest condolences to Mike's family and friends. We encountered Mike our first round of chemotherapy at. St. Boniface. He took the time to talk to us and put some perspective on what was to come, and what might help. He was an amazing person, so easy to talk to. On several other occasions we ran into Mike and Kwok and they were always upbeat and we did really enjoy talking with both of them. Our thoughts are with you all at this time - Posted by: Mark & Murielle MacMillan (Fellow cancer patient) on: Sep 22, 2012

  • We will never forget him as a track athlete at Sansome. Long distance he was king. Great Athlete amazing personality and the most funny, smart, positive person I have ever met! Although we only knew eachother as Jr. high friends he made an impact on us. Always enjoyed when we crossed paths in life! Sad to loose such a warm person! - Posted by: Paolo and Becky De Luca (School friend) on: Sep 22, 2012

  • I loved him like my sons. He called me Momma G. He brightened my life with his friendship over 30 years. Love to Bev, his Mom, Lynn, his Step Momma, and Don, his Father. They gave us Michael a wonderful addition to this world. Someone, descent and kind, respectful, bright and loving. My dear son you will be missed. - Posted by: Barbara Greason and Dave Greason (3rd Mom. ) on: Sep 22, 2012

  • I remember in grade 5, in Mrs. Sokalski's class, we all had to bring a food that represented our ethnicity and Mike was adamant that he was CANADIAN and didn't know what to bring! He had such great heart in everything he did. May you rest now Mikey. xoxox - Posted by: Lisa Misyk-Lemke (School friend) on: Sep 22, 2012

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