Obituary: ‘Skip’ Forsht, 70

by | May 12, 2021

EG News Obituary Policy: We post obituaries relevant to our readers. If you would like to share an obituary, send it to [email protected]. Put “obituary” in the subject line.

Eugene Robert “Skip” Forsht, Jr., 70, passed away on April 29, soon after a diagnosis of metastatic cancer. He was a great supporter of the Sierra Club and a true environmentalist who introduced countless people to the joys of nature with his vast knowledge of backpacking and hiking. His enthusiasm was contagious and was shared with everyone involved with the Wilderness Basic Course he taught for many years.

Skip was born in Oakland, Calif., and grew up in East Greenwich. He graduated from Villanova with a degree in teaching. His teaching career started at Mt. Saint Charles Academy and ended in the National City school district where he retired in 2005. Skip is survived by his life partner, Kristin Hembrooke; sisters Debbie Schubarth of Fallbrook and Christine Donald of East Greenwich. He leaves behind many, many friends whose lives he touched with his infectious laugh and warm smile. He was caring and giving, always willing to teach and lead others on a variety of subjects from running to bike rides to home improvements. His diverse group of friends will feel his loss in countless ways.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 22 in El Cajon, Calif. For details, email [email protected]. Sierra Club of San Diego and Save the Redwoods League would appreciate a donation made in Skip’s memory.

You can leave an online condolence at the funeral home HERE.

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John Chandler
John Chandler
May 13, 2021 10:21 am

I recently learned of the sudden and unexpected death of Skip from his wonderful sister Christine, who currently resides with her husband (Robert) in EG. Skip and his family remain friends for life. I was extremely fortunate to be able to stay most of my senior year (1966) with his family while mine had moved to Oklahoma during the summer. I am forever indebted to the Forsht family for their kindness and generosity extended to me during that short period of time. Skip and I became very close – we were like brothers, I know my life was undoubtedly changed for the better by being able to stay in Rhode Island that critical year. I’m thankful for having the privilege of knowing Skip and family, and will miss his kindness and great sense of humor.

Until we meet again, may you forever rest in peace and be comforted by the grace of God.

Jane Sweeney
Jane Sweeney
May 13, 2021 7:25 pm

I grew up one street over from Skip and feel very fortunate that we were able to reconnect over Facebook and get together when he visited EG. We talked about how very fortunate we were to have grown up in such a great neighborhood/town. We were delighted that we had both turned out to be liberals and to shared many of the same ideas of social justice. I was looking forward to seeing him this summer. Rest in peace, Skip.

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