Ross Owen Forsythe

May 6, 1959 - February 9, 2025

In Loving Memory

It is with saddened hearts that we share the news of the passing of Ross Forsythe on February 9, 2025, at the age of 65. Ross was born on May 6, 1959, in Sarnia to Diane (2021) and Owen Forsythe. They had two children, Ross Forsythe and Maureen (Craig) Carson. After graduating from high school, Ross moved to Toronto to begin a career in law enforcement. Following a rewarding 32-year career with the Toronto Police Service, Ross retired early at the age of 55 (much to the envy of his sister).

A notorious “metal head,” Ross was happiest at home, playing his bass guitar at ear-splitting volume and hanging out with his cats. He was an avid reader, especially of crime and mystery novels, and he enjoyed sitting outside surrounded by the nature of his backyard, which most recently included a family of foxes. Ross loved to drive up north to visit his best friend and kindred spirit, Shelley (Joe) Apollinaro, on her property away from the city. He also made frequent trips to Sarnia to visit family, including his three nieces, Chandra, Jenna, and Andie Carson, as well as his great-nephew, August Webster.

During his 10-month battle with acute leukemia, Ross kept a resilient rock-and-roll attitude, quoting the immortal words of Alice in Chains, “Ain’t found a way to kill me yet.” We loved Ross—our uncle, brother, and son—and are deeply saddened that he did not get to live out a long life.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Ross’ neighbours and friends, Elaina, Mike, and their daughter Danika Daoust, who were loyal and gracious sources of support for Ross during his cancer battle, including taking him to appointments, making meals, and taking care of his two cats, Helix and Goose.

Cremation has taken place. In lieu of a funeral, a celebration of life will be held in the spring (details to be provided at a later date). We encourage friends and family to celebrate in true Ross fashion: with a cold drink and heavy metal music.

Donations can be made to Toe Beans Cat Café in Port Hope and the Sarnia Humane Society.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at McEACHNIE FUNERAL HOME.