James Leo Forman

James L. “Butch” Forman, 76 of Gaylord, passed away Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at home. 

Born in Gaylord on August 24, 1946, Butch was the son of Leo J. and Sarah E. (Higley) Forman.  He was a lifelong area resident.

After serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, Butch returned home and worked 44 years at H&H Tube in Vanderbilt. 

In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing the harmonica, berry, and mushroom picking, and playing handheld poker games.  He was also an avid fan of Detroit Red Wings hockey, classic television, and country music, and he loved the companionship of his hunting dog, Toby.  He was most proud to be the father of four daughters, raising them as a single dad.  Butch enjoyed getting foot massages from his girls. 

Butch is survived by his daughters, Kelly (Don) Converse of Gaylord, Jamie Forman of Morgantown, WV, Jessica Forman of Vanderbilt, and Amber Forman of Gaylord; grandchildren, Isabella, Emmaleigh, Pamela (Taylor), Lance, Kayne (Cristy), Ashton, Brayden, Dylan, Ivy, Kayleb, and Gavin; eight great grandchildren; sisters, Pat Borowiak of Vanderbilt, Jeannie (Dave) Stevens of Wolverine, and Donna (Bill) Lanning of Bowling Green, OH; brothers, Tom (Delores) Forman of Mt. Pleasant, and Don (Cindy) Forman of Gaylord; several nieces and nephews; and his former mother-in-law, Isabel Luther of Wolverine.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Sarah Forman; and his brother-in-law, Chet Borowiak.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM Friday, July 21, 2023, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, where visitation with the family will begin at 3:00 PM.

Please leave your memories and personal messages with the family on the guestbook, below.