East End Mourns Captain Mike Forman: 'A Lifetime Of Memories'

EAST 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.

Forman, 63, tragically lost his life in a Sunrise Highway crash on Monday, January 8.

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."