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BORN
1973
DIED
2016
Michael Forgey Obituary
1973 ~ 2016
(Mike, Mikey, 4G, Forthog, Forgenstein, Baron Von Forgenhammer III)
Michael passed away March 3rd, 2016 at 3:15 a.m. after a difficult 10 month battle with brain cancer. He was a beloved husband, loving father, wonderful son, brother, an accomplished boss, a dedicated musician, bandmate, Uncle Monkey, a favorite cousin, nephew, avid Seahawks fan, and a good friend.
Michael was born on July 9th, 1973 in Sunnyside, WA. He grew up in Washington and was a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Yakima, Washington in 1991. April and Mike met in high school and were married in 1995. He attended college in Seattle, and pursued a career in the video game industry. He worked on many products and games for Microsoft, first as a test lead, then as a producer. He then worked as an executive producer for Monolith Productions in Kirkland, Washington. His most recent work was the award winning title Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, April, and three children Bridget (15), Brendan (13), and Finnegan (9), his parents Gayla and Mike Prummer, Lim and Cindy Forgey, April's parents Cheryl Bick, and Steve Phillips. His siblings Lim (Chavaleh), Dan (Cheryl), Dawn (Ezra), Christoph (Amy), John, Tammi, Sandi, April's siblings Anton, Marcy, Michelle, Ryan, Jana (Kellie), and Joe (Anne), as well as multiple aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.
His love of music began as he was growing up in the 70s with his parents, who also loved music. He enjoyed writing music, playing the guitar, and was in multiple bands: Mystic Doom, Killer Instinct, Victims of Circumstance (V.O.C), The Braindead, Plus Size Cowboys, Agony of Deceit (A.O.D.), and The Cold That Lasts All Winter (C.L.A.W.) recently publishing their album "Back Home". He also loved a wide range of music from Pink Floyd to Paul McCartney, Jazz to classic rock, and Willie Nelson to Testament.
His family and friends enjoyed watching every Seahawks game together at home, sharing laughs and groans, cheers and disappointments- but loving every minute together supporting their Hawks. "Seahawks first down, alright!"
Mike, along with his family, enjoyed watching movies, playing games, cooking, having family parties, camping, fishing (especially in a metal pontoon boat in a lightning storm), hiking, road trips, vacationing, and photography.
He was a well loved and respected man who leaves a huge void in the lives of everyone he touched. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
A graveside service will be held at Greenwood Memorial Park on Sunday, March 13th at 12 p.m. 350 Monroe Ave. N.E. Renton, Washington with a memorial service and reception to follow at Overlake Christian Church at 2:30 p.m. 9900 Willows Road N.E. Redmond, Washington. Please sign Michael's online Guestbook at www.Legacy.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Forgey
Sponsored by The Family.
Clark Chaos
February 28, 2023
I miss you everyday Mike. I miss our lunches, discussing music, politics and you being a coach to JD and I having our blow ups. Forever Plus Sized, always a Cowboy brother!! Love you Mikey!
Pedro Gutierrez
December 18, 2022
Hello,
Midnight here, finishing up playing some Shadow of Mordor. I just came back to playing the story mode again for like the 4th to 6th time (cant remember exactly) since buying it back in 2014. I've always thought it to be the best game I have ever played along with WoW. For some reason, and on this day where I just returned from my Uncles funeral, it dawned on me how great this game truly is, and how its gotten me through many years of stress and hardship. Like a kind of therapy. Today, I truly came to appreciate this game and those who created it. I thought "Let me see who helped create this game and what there up to now?" I checked the credits and saw Michaels name as executive producer, then Googled him to see what game he was working on now only to discover that he had passed away. I stumbled on this obituary in my wanting to know what happened and to get to know that man behind this masterpiece of a game. Read it and discovered we were born on the exact same day and year, with similar interest/background. I don't believe in coincidences. So...
To his family and friends. I know its been several years, but I am sorry for your loss. I hope to get to meet him one day in heaven. He seems like an awesome guy. I pray A LOT (maybe too much). He will be in my prayers from here on out. God bless and keep you all...
Grant him eternal rest O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.
VM
April 9, 2022
I just finished Shadow of War and came across Michael's tribute. I've never seen anything like it before, he clearly had an impact. RIP
Daniel
January 12, 2022
RIP, thank you for the games
Tom
December 1, 2021
Just like many other comments here, i have just finished Shadow of War and watched the incredible tribute. Was very touched, rest in peace. It was a very touching tribute, very glad i watched it and that i did not skip the credits.
Péter-Szabó Gábor
March 10, 2021
I see lots of comments below are in native language of the commenter. Michael's works reached many locations around the globe, so I'll add mine in my own.
Kérem fogadják szinte részvétem!
A veszteséget nyilván nem csökkenti, de az mindenképpen csodálatos dolog, hogy Michael munkája rengeteg örömöt okoz nagyon-nagyon sok embernek világszerte.
Legyen neki könny a sír.
Tisztelettel: Gábor
PATRICK GONZAGA DA SILVA
February 22, 2021
Obrigado por esse legado sombras de mordor e sombras da guerra esses jogos me marcaram muito enquanto houver alguém que o ame ou o admire vc nunca será esquecido skål meu amigo!
Tim Hubbard
January 17, 2021
I just finished Shadow of Mordor and watched the credits. My heartfelt wishes go out to his family. I was truly touched by the lovely tribute and hope you have had the time to somehow live with the loss. Best wishes. Tim
Andre Buschsieweke
December 24, 2020
Ich habe gerade durch die Credits von Shadow of War gesehen wer du bist aber wusste nicht was es damit auf sich hat . Habe sofort auf Google geschaut und möchte hier mit mein Beileid aussprechen an alle angehörigen und freunde. Die Spiele die endstanden sind haben mir so viel Freude bereitet auch dafür danke an das ganze Team Great Job
Gustavo Themudo Rodrigues
October 24, 2020
I wanna say thank you so much Michael for this beautiful masterpiece called Shadow War, you will be alive forever on our hearts... Legends never die, thank you for everything Michael Forgey :)
Chris Velas
May 22, 2020
Just found about about you through the credits of Shadow of War. I immediately took to google and found this. Thanks for making games like this for all to enjoy. I really enjoyed it. From reading the comments of the people that knew you; you were a great person, friend, husband and father. Rest in peace sir.
Joel Blakely
February 29, 2020
I think about Mike all the time. He was one of those people who made everyone around him feel good. He immediately made me feel like I was a close friend. We shared a lot of laughter and some tears toward the end. I am lucky to have known him and I miss him.
ANTONIO MARCIO DE MELO
February 16, 2020
Quero agradecer o excelente jogo que ajudou a criar, passei horas jogando e esquecendo meus problemas. Seu personagem me salvou no final e conheci sua história. Estou emocionado. Seu legado está presente no Brasil!
Erick Vega
September 11, 2019
Your legacy will be there for ever, in the games you made and in the people you inspire.
Rest in peace
Abdallah Sourcheh
May 21, 2018
Why is it the good men that die first ... Rest in peace <3
Brad Hyatt
January 9, 2018
Rest in Peace, Michael David Forgey
Connor Waltho
October 23, 2017
God bless this man
March 29, 2016
I was fortunate enough to work a little bit with Forgey while he was at Monolith a few years ago. Was a pleasure to do so. Based on the impression he made on me over such a brief period of his life, I can't fathom how much he will be missed by those close to him.
Eric Johnson
March 14, 2016
You are greatly missed my friend, yesterday's service and tribute to Mike was touching, gone but never forgotten... 4G 4ever!
Joel Blakely
March 13, 2016
Mike, or Forgey actually, I don't think I ever called him Mike, was someone who just made you feel liked. He gave me the first nickname that ever stuck with me. One day he said "I think I am going to call you Blakers from now on. Do you think the name will stick?" I said it probably wouldn't. But he consistently referred to me as Blakers only for the next three years after that. He made me feel good being around him. After you reach a certain point in life you begin to get a little disillusioned with people. It is hard to find someone to look up to at 40. But, I found myself looking up to Forgey, a lot. He was a true, natural leader and he cared about people. I can't imagine anyone knowingly facing their last months of life with more integrity, honesty or grit than he did. I was so lucky to know him. I love Mike Forgey and I will never forget him.
Maegan Walling
March 13, 2016
Beautiful service. Thank you so much for allowing us to come pay our respects and love. He will be missed and forever a part of our lives. My heart and thoughts to April and family. Lots of love.Maegan w
Mario Ortiz
March 13, 2016
I miss your positive energy around the office and your awesome sense of humor. I also miss our talks about photography and games. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. You're one of a kind. God bless!
John Piel
March 13, 2016
I've had the proud honor of knowing and working with Mike over the past several years. His presence as a friend, leader, teammate, and collaborator are almost impossible to overstate. Mike created an atmosphere of comraderie though his gregarious nature, and a shared sense of purpose with his unwavering confidence in his team. He inspired the kind of loyalty only a guy who doesn't shy away from challenges or difficult truths can command.
I always got the sense that Mike approached every aspect of his life with the same gusto, be it his family, his football team, his music.
I will miss Mike greatly and think of him often, knowing that I am in excellent company every time I do.
Peter Wyse
March 12, 2016
Hail Forthog! You will not be forgotten.
chris Hilkey
March 12, 2016
Mike was a great friend and mentor to my brother James when he needed it the most. I will always be thankful for that.
Meeting Mick Foley @ the Parlor
Michael Jefferson
March 10, 2016
Jesse Beltran
March 10, 2016
It's funny how God can bring thngs to life and make you see things in a different light, Him using us to show others how special we all are and what time we have each other on His planet to live, love and laugh with one another. When growin up and just thinking back on some of the ways that Mike has tought me is the love for his family and friends..he had the biggest heart and would do anything for you and even give you his black leather jacket loved so much, to you. He would sleep with that jacket. For about 26 yrs or longer, I have not seen or heard from Mike and learning about his passing was and is very heart breaking. I love this guy and it was a joy to me everyday, to see him and that big smile he always had. I Love you Mike and you will always be missed!! I wish, wish that I would have stayed in touch with you, but I will be thinking of all the cool and fun stuff we all did as we were all young. Until we meet again bro. Love you!! To his family I'm so glad that you have had the life with him that you did and wish that you had a longer time with him, and if I can turn time around I would, but God will do His part for us. I pray for you to have comfort knowing that he is in an awesome place with God, as he will be walking the path of our Lord Jesus Christ!!
Love you Mikey.
Kevin K
March 10, 2016
American Cancer Fund
March 9, 2016
The staff of the American Cancer Fund® at www.AmericanCancerFund.org is sorry to hear of Michael's passing. We have received a memorial donation in his name and our sincere condolences go out to his family.
Bishop Schulz
March 8, 2016
There are people we meet as we journey through life, some are fleeting and gone, never leaving an echo or impression, then there are some that carry a unique spark that leave a little behind and add something to your life from then on.
People like that are rare, Michael was one of those and I know, from the few years I got to know him and attend a few fun conventions, that I am that much better of a person. I share an honor of having met him, ate with him, drank with him...a grand chap all round.
I'll miss ya man.
Kevin Stephens
March 8, 2016
Forgey, Forthog, 4G...so many nicknames because he didn't take himself too seriously, was always trying to make you smile - his deadpan humor was sure to catch you off guard at least once...even when you knew he was being sarcastic he could still get you...He was loyal - fiercely so - always willing to go to war if necessary. But more than likely, he'd be the one to talk everyone down, smooth things over and get everyone smiling again. Smart, with an encyclopedic knowledge - Seahawks to Beatles, Cars to video games - his memory was deep and wide and surprisingly accurate. Always open to friendly debate and unafraid of almost all topics of discussion, and always open to others idea's, beliefs and lifestyles - even if he didn't agree with them, he didn't judge (at least not publically). Michael was a hard worker - long hours at work, but always there for his kids - which he adored and admired...openly surprised at the talents of his children, joking that he couldn't understand where their skills came from. Modest. Mike was modest but proud of his accomplishments. Which were many. Kind, compassionate, empathetic. But hard when necessary. Never shied away from the hard, "dirty" work.
Loved. Michael was loved - by many. By me. I will never forget him - or how good a of a friend he was to me.
Dayna Smith
March 7, 2016
Caring, kind, thoughtful, hilarious, talented, incredibly intelligent; Words that barely begin to describe Mike Forgey. I feel incredibly lucky to have known Mike - and even more lucky to have called him my friend. He will be so very, very missed. A wonderfully bright light has gone out... Much love and many condolences to the Forgey family.
Dion LaBlue
March 7, 2016
Often times we meet people in our life and no matter how short a period we take away something special from each one. I have a few of those special moments from you that I will keep forever, Mike. To your family I send my thoughts, prayers, and eternal love. I would go on the road with you again any day, 4G...any day.
Theresa Johnson
March 7, 2016
I'd never thought it would be this way, but I imagine no one did. Life throws us curve balls and we do the best we can, you did the best you could. You worked so hard, cared so much and gave all you had to those around you. Though we hadn't seen much if each other in these recent years, I was happy to see you recently, although I wish it were under better circumstances. You were a great man Mike, I am glad to have had the privilege to call you a friend. You will be missed, but never forgotten...
Limmie
March 7, 2016
You left a big hole in my life. You and I, we walked much of this world tethered together. You were kind, when I was vain, you were gracious when I selfish. You loved big, grabbed moments and lived fully. It's hard to put into words this strange new life without you. It doesn't seem real. I don't want it to seem real. So many people called you 'brother' but I am jealously keeping that title. You were my little brother and I thank you for being a great one. I love you Mikey.
Jeff Carmon
March 7, 2016
Mike was an amazing person who taught me a lot of things both personally and professionally. He was a charismatic person who led by his shining example. Wearing his heart on his shoulder, he brought people together and guided our studio through some very tough times. Mike genuinely cared for everyone, never have I seen him get angry, never have I seen him talk negatively about another person. A true leader, mentor, friend and fatherly figure to us all.
While Mike is not here physically, he certainly left a bit of his soul with everyone.
Kristian Bourdage
March 7, 2016
I miss you...I miss seeing you at the office...I miss your presence....i miss walking into your office and distracting you with my Canadianness...and joking around with you about Canada in general...or just joking around about anything. Everyone loved you Forgey, fun, positive, jovial, cool, kind, generous...i wish i spent more time telling you this, you will be so missed man...it's really sinking in now, and my hearts breaking. Love you!
Kristen Spoor
March 7, 2016
Forgey, I knew you such a brief time, but in that time, you were such a bright light. When I was new to Monolith, you were one of the first people to introduce yourself and welcome me to the team. Your musical stylings were always fun to listen to and even that last day we came to visit, you still had a smile on your face. My best wishes to your family and friends. You will be greatly missed.
Peter Delgado
March 6, 2016
You'll be missed buddy, I remember those great conversations we had about music, such a great attitude about life and music. Rest in peace man.
March 6, 2016
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my prayers daily.
Gayle Delp
Lee Forgey
March 6, 2016
I love you, Dad. I learned Us and Them yesterday for you, and I've almost finished the drawings that you asked me to make. Thank you for always being here for me, and always accepting me for who I am. I'll always remember you.-Lee,I love you, Dad. I learned Us and Them yesterday for you, and I've almost finished the drawings that you asked me to make. Thank you for always being here for me, and always accepting me for who I am. I'll always remember you.
Tim Jennings
March 6, 2016
Rest in peace brother. It was a pleasure knowing you.....
Tricia Dick (oslin)
March 6, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to all.
Tamara Chittenden
March 6, 2016
My love and prayers to you in this time of loss.
Mikey and Cheryl
Cheryl Forgey
March 6, 2016
I love you big brother-Cheryl
Mikey and Dan
Dan Forgey
March 6, 2016
I love you big brother.
Mikey and Cheryl
Dan Forgey
March 6, 2016
Mikey and Dan
Dan Forgey
March 6, 2016
YT Hoorn
March 6, 2016
To my brother who made every circumstance better, explained every story behind every song and loved friends like family i know this world is worse off without you but apaprently your grandpa needed a poker partner and I'm sure your grandma has a fresh plate of biscuits and gravy waiting. Love you 4G. YT
cathy chastain
March 6, 2016
To April and your children, your parents Lim and Gayla,all of your siblings, family, and friends....My heart and love goes to you all. Remember the good times and he will live in your heart forever...love you. ..Aunt Cat
Clark Wheeler
March 6, 2016
You are a great friend, one of kind Mike. I cherished our lunch gatherings and all of our discussions of life, family and music. Most of all I loved just hanging out with you. You opened my eyes to so much that I was blind to see. So proud of you and I'm so glad to call you my friend!!
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