In Memory of

Bob

Norman

Forhan

Condolences

Condolence From: Sandra Weir
Condolence: This is a message to Bob Forhan,s family from Ken Weir who new him so well. We did not know of his passing but widh you & your familys so much god Bless you all
Tuesday June 19, 2018
Condolence From: Ted & Nanette Parent
Condolence: Dear Sandra, Nanette and I just heard that Bob has pass away and are saddened by this news. As you are well aware Bob was one of those larger than life individuals, that always gave his all to any endeavor, in sport, education, government he always left his mark. He did not stand by and watch, he participated in life and made significant contributions to the town of Newmarket, the region of York and to Canada. I will miss him. I repeat Nick Swirla’s words that he was always a source of sound advice and council. Thank you Bob, rest in peace. Sandra and the boys, and grandchildren, you know that he was a unique man, and all who knew him will fondly remember him. He was a great example for so many. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Wednesday June 13, 2018
Condolence From: John Scott
Condolence: Rarely in a lifetime, someone strides through your world and leaves footprints all over your heart and soul. Bob was such a man. And my life, among many, was changed by his presence. With him goes a piece of me and all that I have become in the years since first we met. Beneath the “jock” exterior was a true sports man; he was the ultimate team player, coach, sports psychologist, captain and leader. Where others talked a good game, Bob “went into the corners” for his teammates and unfailingly shared what could be termed “personal” triumphs. My history with Bob began when I arrived in Newmarket as a young editor, itching to establish a new newspaper in opposition to a very solid, respected local paper. Bob took me under his wing and never shied away from an interview or a tough question. Clearly the sharpest politician in the chambers, he rarely mocked those who thought they could play games with their duties as councillors or staff. They were quietly “counselled” after the meeting and the foolishness seldom was repeated. Although I had seen and known many politicians from all levels of government, I had never watched anyone who had both a sense of vision and the skills to make those dreams come true. Later, after I had left Newmarket to assume command of the paper in Markham, Bob asked me to consider becoming the Region’s information officer. It was an offer I couldn’t and didn’t refuse. Immediately, I became a member of his team and, as such, was pat of many adventures in governance. Together we fashioned a communications plan that would position York Region as, not only “Canada’s Fastest Growing Region”, but as a great place to live, work and invest. When Bob assumed the dual roles of chairman and CAO, he never missed a beat -- despite the knee jerk reactions of pundits who assumed no person could perform both jobs. Bob and his team not only could, but did. When Bob departed York Region, he left behind a legacy of people, systems and ideas that still function decades later. With Bob’s passing, we all are diminished. But, in fairness, we all were enriched. To Sandy and all of Bob’s family, allow me to extend condolences from myself, Sue and our entire family. We regret that we did not become aware of his passing until Sunday -- too late to join with you in celebrating his life. Thank you all for sharing Bob with us and giving him the opportunity and support to walk gently and purposefully through our hearts and souls. God Bless You all.
Sunday June 10, 2018
Condolence From: Ken Cassavoy
Condolence: So sad to lose Bob. I grew up on Gorham St. just two doors up from Bob and Bill. I was closer in age to Bill and played road hockey with him and George Robertson and all the Garrets, and others, virtually every night after school down by the creek on Hamilton St. My brother Jim is Bob's age and so Jim knew him better than me. Bob and Jim didn't have much time for Billy and I because we were three years younger than them. But every now and then they would deign to include us in their activities. What a hockey player Bob was - and, of course, Bill too! Bob left our street at a very young age (14 or 15 I think) to start pursuing his hockey career so we didn't see much of him after that, except in the newspapers Sports pages. Anyway, I have very fond memories of the Gorham St. days and the two talented Forhans who lived just down the street. Just wanted to share these good memories with Bob's family. Ken (and Pat) Cassavoy
Friday June 08, 2018
Condolence From: Kelly Boland
Condolence: Joe and the Forhan family, I am so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I remember him well from the tennis courts. He was always so friendly and encouraging. Thinking of you during this difficult time. Kelly
Friday June 08, 2018
Condolence From: Joe Pennachetti
Condolence: Sandy and family My deepest and sincere condolences on the passing of Bob- I am still numb in hearing the sad news- however, I will always remember Bob the CAO and leader of setting the administrative foundation of bringing York Region through the massive growth and leadership role in the GTA. Importantly Bob emphasized with me the importance of collaboration with the Regional area municipalities which became a lesson well learned for me for years thereafter. On a personal note I will always be indebted to Bob in hiring a relatively young CFO as he built the management team in York Region in 1990 and beyond. Importantly for me was Bobs openness to talk about Regional Issues- always laying out his opinions but at the same time wanting your ideas to ensure all viewpoints were considered. Finally I will miss golfing with Bob, relaxing afterwards with a drink ( or 2?!) and solving the Region and Provincial issues of the day! Bob will always be remembered as the Founding Father of York Region , setting the foundation for long term managed growth in the GTA. Sandy and family- your husband and father is a legacy to many more than you realize- as a colleague but more importantly as a friend! With sympathy Always JoeP
Friday June 08, 2018
Condolence From: Lois and Ray Judges
Condolence: Sandy and Family. We are so very sorry to hear of Bob's passing. Our sympathy and thoughts are with you all.
Friday June 08, 2018
Condolence From: John & Margaret Cole
Condolence: We were saddened to learn of Bob's passing. We have many memories of a good friend and neighbour. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John & Marg
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Paul & JoAnne Conlin
Condolence: I had the great pleasure of playing hockey with Bobby on Canada's Olympic team and National team. Bobby's hockey prowess and fiery spirit were a great inspiration to us all. He was such a likable "tell it like it is " person. He will be sadly missed. Sincere best wishes to Sandy and family. Our thought and prayers are with you. JoAnne and Paul
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Marion and John Luff
Condolence: Sandy John and I are so sorry to hear about Bob's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. John and Marion.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: ted boyd
Condolence: Very sad to hear of Bobs passing-my condolences
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Bob Shelton
Condolence: My condolences to the Forhan family. I first met Bob when he was Mayor of Newmarket and watched as he embraced many public career opportunities and challenges as Regional Chair and CAO moving our Region forward. Thank you Bob for your many contributions.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Anne Liversidge
Condolence: To the Forhan family, you are in my thoughts during this very difficult time. I will cherish my memories of playing tennis with Bob and my Dad at your home when they needed a sub on Sundays....Anne
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Christine & Michael Way Skinner
Condolence: We want to extend our sympathy and let you know that we are keeping you all in our prayers at this time. Peace, the Way Skinners.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Penny O'Rourke
Condolence: Hard to fill this void but we will all miss that infectious laugh. Thinking of the Forhan family at this sad time
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Brian Mulcahy
Condolence: Joe - You are the best friend a person could ask for in life. Please know I am here for you no matter what; anytime, anyplace. I appreciate you my friend. God bless.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Brian Mulcahy
Condolence: Dear Mrs. Forhan, My Dear Friend Joe, Mike, Bob & Family, I cannot express to you enough how so very sorry I am for your loss. The Forhan family is a very important family in my life. Mr. Forhan is a great man & led a wonderful family. I cannot thank you all enough for the kindness you extended me in our times together. Please know the entire Mulcahy Family has you in their thoughts & prayers.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Ron Veitch
Condolence: Bob was my teacher and counselor when I was a student at Pickering College. He was a very positive influence in my life at a time when that was exactly what I needed. I will always remember him fondly. My heartfelt condolences to Sandy and the family.
Thursday June 07, 2018
Condolence From: Bob Hodgson
Condolence: I am very sad to learn of the passing of Bob and wish to express on behalf of my wife and myself, our condolences to you Sandra and the Forhan family. I first met Bob when he was running for Mayor and years later worked with him when he was Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer at the Region of York. I had great respect for Bob and his visionary policies for the Region and the execution of same. I will miss Bob and all the help he provided me and the Hodgson family. Again, I am deeply saddened on losing a great friend. Bob & Heather Hodgson
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Don Greenham
Condolence: Sandy and family, So very sorry to hear about Bob. I remember the good old days with you Sandy and Bobby.He will be dearly missed by many. Thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. Don
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Dan O'Toole
Condolence: To Sandy, Bob, Mike and Joe Our family is so saddened to hear of the passing of Bob. We'll miss the tennis talk (and politics) but great memories will endure. Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. Remember, we're just up the street if you need anything.
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Phil and Mary Frances Brunt
Condolence: To Sandra, Robert, Michael and Joseph: We have such fond memories of Bob from “back in the day”. He was a compassionate, caring gentle man of integrity. We knew him in his early days of hockey, later as a parent when Robert attended high school in Thornhill, and when he was Chairman of York Region. We offer our sincere condolences to the Forhan Family. May he Rest In Peace
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Larry and Patti Wilson
Condolence: Mrs Forhan, Bobby, Mike, & Joe our thoughts and prayers are with you and are saddened with the loss of Mr. Forhan. I remember the days on Park Ave, road hockey and Mr. Forhan's support in all our sports. Mr. Forhan was a gentlemen and one of the great ones!
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Mike Garrett
Condolence: Sorry to learn about Bob's passing. I always enjoyed rubbing shoulders with Bob as a fellow CAO. My best wishes to the family. Mike Garrett
Wednesday June 06, 2018
Condolence From: Marty Murray
Condolence: Mrs Forhan, Mike, Bob & Joe , Growing up in Our Great Town, the Forhan Family was part of our Family , we are Saddened by your Loss, Prayers and thoughts are with you, Mr Forhan was one of a kind, and one of my Heroes, always came over to shake hands and chatt,
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Melanie (Cole) Moffatt
Condolence: Mrs Forhan, Bob, Mike and Joe. So saddened to hear of the passing of your husband and dad. I can still hear his laugh from across the yard on Kingdale. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. Melanie (Cole) Moffatt
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Peter Smith
Condolence: Mrs Forhan and Family, My sincere condolences at this time, Mr Forhan shall be greatly missed but his memories shall live on. Peter & Connor
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Graham and Susie LLoyd
Condolence: To Sandy and Family: Graham and I are so sorry for your loss and we are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Nick Swirla
Condolence: To the Forhan Family, please accept my condollences, Bob was one of a kind that we rarely meet in our lifetime. I could always rely on his Guidence & advice thru some difficult times as President of the Newmarket Minor Hockey Association and for that I am forever greatful... “He made this world a better place for us to follow”..!! Sadly he will be missed!!! The Swirla’s......
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Darlene White
Condolence: Joe - I am sorry to hear of the loss of your father. My sympathies and thoughts are with you and your family.
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Becky Bell
Condolence: My thoughts are with you .My condolences to the whole family
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Tim Jones
Condolence: My condolences. Enjoyed our time together at the Region and comparing stories about various interactions with residents.
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Chris Emanuel
Condolence: My sincerest condolences to the Forhan family on the passing of Bob. He impacted so many lives as a dedicated servant to the public. He leaves a legacy that will be remembered for eternity.
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: DR.ED RZADKI
Condolence: DEAR JOE CONDOLENCES ON YOUR LOSS.TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING YOUR DAD AT THE LAST SOUTHDOWN FUNDRAISER, AND THE YEAR BEFORE. MAY HE REST IN PEACE. ED
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Michelle Twinney
Condolence: You and your family are in my heart and mind. My condolences on the passing of your husband and father. Memories are forever! May they bring a smile to you all at this difficult time and always.
Tuesday June 05, 2018
Condolence From: Keith and Anne Upton
Condolence: Dear Sandy and Family, Remembering Bob and your lovely family from our days living in Newmarket. Our condolences to the whole family. It is never easy to loose a loved one but the memories we have will never disappear. Keith and Anne and daughters Darlene and Bonnie
Monday June 04, 2018
Condolence From: Sam Twinney
Condolence: Dearest Sandy, I was shocked and saddened to learn of Bob's sudden passing. I have always found him to be so pleasant and friendly to see even if there where years in between meetings and of course the early years of knowing him during his political career with our brother were the best memories. Recently I have been lucky enough seeing Bob and you at church on Sundays and I can still see the great love that you have for each other and I know how much he will be missed by all but especially you Sandy. Karen and I send our condolences to the whole Family. Love, Sam.
Monday June 04, 2018
Condolence From: Larry and Barb Twinney
Condolence: Dear Sandy and Family: We are very sorry for your loss. Bob was a great guy and he will be remembered for all the good he did for so many when he was alive. God bless you all.
Monday June 04, 2018
Condolence From: David and Susan Smith
Condolence: I'm so sorry for your loss. It's been a long time since I babysat for the boys. Please accept our condolences.
Monday June 04, 2018
Condolence From: Heather
Condolence: Sandy, You and Bob have had many wonderful years together and you will cherish these memories. They will comfort you and help you stay strong. Love, Heather
Monday June 04, 2018