John Wesley Forgay

John Wesley Forgay, aka Froggy, a highly dedicated public servant and advocate for mental health passed away peacefully at home with friends and family at his side on January 26, 2024 in Craig, CO. Born, May 2, 1947, in Sweetwater TX, he PROUDLY served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War from 1966-1970. Following his military service, he worked for the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office from 1970-1977 serving as an Investigator, working primarily in burglary, theft, and fraud investigations. His commitment to law enforcement continued as he transitioned to the Craig Police Department. During his tenure there he served as a patrol officer, Detective, Detective Sergeant, and Lieutenant from 1977 until his retirement in 2016. John also served as a liaison for the Joint Terrorism Task Force.
In addition to his law enforcement career, John served as the Loss Prevention Manager in Austin, TX from 1988-1994.
His passion for mental health advocacy led him to become a founding member of REPS (Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide), where he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and provide support to those in need. John's advocacy also embraced the elderly, as he also devoted his time and expertise to the Adult Protection Team, where he played a vital role in safeguarding vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect.
John's 'unprecedented' commitment to the community led him to also serve as the President of the Board of Directors, and head Grill Master, for the Craig Rural Fire Department from 2008-2023. John's allegiance to his country, public safety, mental wellness, and the multifaceted protection of others, touched the lives of MANY, leaving a lasting impact on all that had the benefit of knowing him.
In his free time, John loved to ride his Harley, take photographs, listen to classic rock and classic country, and love on animals, especially his own sidekick, suitably named. Harley. He had a knack for brightening up any situation with his quick wit and infectious humor. His ability to lighten the mood with a well-timed joke brought laughter and joy to all those around him. Riding his motorcycle led him to a special little coffee house in 2013 located in Hayden, CO, the Wild Goose Coffee at the Granary. As he got comfortable getting to know more and more people that frequented this sweet home away from home for him, he did the only thing he knew how to do, he served. He started 'helping out', cleaning up after other guests and assisting the staff in anything they needed. After several years of 'helping out' it was insisted that he had to go on the payroll. All he wanted was selflessly help people when and wherever he could with his trademark kindness.
John leaves behind a rich legacy of service, kindness, and laughter. He left an indelible mark on his community and his offering to the world will continue to inspire others to serve, advocate and to find joy in the simple moments that make life a little bit sweeter.
John is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Edith Forgay and his sister Sandra Jean Penton.
He is survived by his three children, daughter Tandi Alene of Denver, CO, son Ian Forgay of Craig, CO and Madison Murray of Fort Campbell, KY as well as 2 grandchildren Addison and Carter.
A celebration of life will be held this summer with a timely announcement.
Memorial Contributions can be made in John's memory to Moffat County REPS (Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide) at: Https://www.Coloradogives.org/organization/REPS
Or to the Jan Bishop Cancer Center of Steamboat Springs, CO.