Michael Forkum

Michael “Mike” Eugene Forkum, age 75, passed away on July 31, 2026. He was born on April 1, 1951, in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Comer Mack Forkum and Mildred (Minnie) Buchli Forkum.

Mike graduated from Chamberlain High School in Tampa, Florida.

Mike was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he faithfully served his country for 21 years. He attained the rank of Technical Sergeant (TSgt) and was honorably discharged upon his retirement from the USAF. Throughout his distinguished military career, Mike received numerous decorations and awards, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award, NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Training Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Following his military retirement, he continued to demonstrate a strong work ethic, spending 21 years as a steelworker at GKN in Gallatin. He later worked for approximately 10 years with Macon County Recycling.

A man of many interests, Mike enjoyed fishing, hunting, dancing, and learning about military history. He was a “wannabe cowboy.” He also enjoyed reading the Word of God and was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Lafayette, Tennessee.

Mike was very much a family man and a homebody who cherished time spent with those he loved. He especially enjoyed making memories with his grandson, Caden. One of the family’s favorite stories recalls a rainy fishing trip when the boat began filling with water. Mike had to scoop water from the boat with a Styrofoam cup while paddling with his other hand—a memory that continues to bring laughter and fond remembrance to those who shared it.

In addition to his parents, Mike is preceded in death by his sister, Edna Dean Chastain; and his brothers, Randall Forkum and Ricky Forkum.

Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn Forkum; his 3 sons; his 3 step daughters; his 1 stepson; his numerous grandchildren; his siblings, Connie Shepherd (Wade) of Tampa, Florida and Brenda Messersmith (Ray) of Brooksville, Florida; and his numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Mike will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026 from 4-7 pm at Hendersonville Funeral Home (353 E. Main Street, Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075) and again on Saturday, August 8, 2026 from 11 am until 12 noon. The funeral service for Mike will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, August 8, 2026 in the chapel of Hendersonville Funeral Home with interment to follow.

Pallbearers will be Shane Hoskins, Darnell Houfek, Mike Butler, Gary Stiles, Beanie Carter, and Caden Butler.

Mike will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his strong work ethic, his faith, his love for family, and the many stories and memories he leaves behind.