Michael Kent Forth

Michael Kent Forth – or Mike as he was known by his loving family and many close friends – was born in 1942 and was the third of four children to Margaret and Bradford Forth. Mike spent his high school career at John Marshall where he lettered in cross country. Outside of school, he worked in the family sheet metal business. The friendships he fostered during this time have lasted throughout his life. Friendships mattered to Mike. In 1964, he married the love of his life, Nanette Keller, and together they built a beautiful life with their three children. Mike walked the world with integrity and honor. He would often say “actions speak louder than words,” and the way he lived his life was indeed a model of right and wrong for his own three children. He was fiercely devoted to his wife to whom he attributed his success and that of the family. Together, Mike and Nan were known for their sense of hospitality, as evidenced by the dinner club they founded and were a part of for over three decades.

Mike could always be counted on. He was there for friends and family, and he was also there for others, particularly those in need. Mike had no love for fanfare, and so he helped people quietly because, to him, serving others is what you do. He served his country as a captain in the Army and was stationed at Fort Leonardwood, Missouri. Ever the prankster, though, Mike, who lived next door to an Army Colonel, named his beagle Colonel. Every morning Mike would call out “Colonel!” Fortunately, the actual Colonel was delighted. Mike had a keen sense of humor and a knack for making people laugh and feel loved, as anyone who listened to his many great stories would know.

Mike earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Oklahoma. Following college, Mike attended Temple University where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery. Mike was a member of the Pankey Institute, an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Chairman of its charitable foundation. He also spearheaded and contributed to many other charitable causes.

Mike loved figuring things out and building. He drew architectural plans for most of the houses his family lived in, built a nursing home and several commercial complexes. He had a brilliant inquisitive mind and knew something about almost everything (or thought he did). He was an avid golfer and made many cherished friendships on the golf course. Mike was also a cyclist and runner. He loved to be active and outdoors. Mike’s faith in God, his sense of purpose and the importance of family and community were hallmarks of his life.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife Nanette Keller Forth; his children Shannon Forth Davies, her husband Tom, Shawn Forth, his wife Alicia, and Christina Forth; his grandchildren Alex Davies, TJ Davies, Georgia Davies, Lilly Hill, her husband Nolan, Collin Forth, William Forth, Maggie Forth, Joseph Forth and Bennett Michael Taylor; his great grandchild Eli Michael Hill; his sister Vickie Crow and many nieces and nephews. God so loved the world that He gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but have eternal life.

A memorial service for Michael will be held Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper, 6600 Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City, OK 731161298.