Michael “Mike” Steven Forbes, a rural Rockford man whose life stretched from farm work and manufacturing to books, gardens, fishing holes and family, has died at the age of 71.
Forbes died Monday, June 1, 2026, at home after a three-year battle with lung cancer.
He was born Feb. 26, 1955, at Park Hospital in Mason City to Charles L. and LeNore V. Forbes. Mike grew up on a farm between Mason City and Nora Springs and graduated from Nora Springs-Rock Falls Community Schools in 1973.
Music was part of his younger years, and he played trumpet in the high school band. After graduation, he attended NIACC, earning an Associate of Arts degree in 1975 while working several jobs to help pay for school.
It was also at NIACC where Mike met Beth Sims of Mason City during an astronomy class in 1975. Their meeting “under the stars” led to marriage on Aug. 12, 1977, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City.
Mike farmed with his father for several years before moving into manufacturing work in Mason City. He later returned to NIACC and earned an accounting degree.
Those who knew Mike will remember a personable man who made friends easily and enjoyed a wide range of interests. He was an avid reader, especially drawn to history, vintage science fiction and humor. He enjoyed the works of authors such as Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury and Patrick McManus.
Mike also enjoyed museums, prehistoric dig sites and trips to Kentucky bourbon distilleries. Closer to home, he found joy in hunting, fishing, mowing, vegetable gardening and growing hostas.
His family also knew him as a helpful presence, always willing to lend a hand and devoted to helping his parents.
Mike is survived by his wife, Beth; two sons, Jason A. Forbes of Waterloo and Phillip A. Forbes of Ames; his mother, LeNore Forbes of rural Nora Springs; his sister, Teresa Forbes of rural Nora Springs; his brother, Gregory Forbes of Mason City; in-laws, nieces and nephews; and his beloved cat, Milly, also known as “Pudkins.”
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Forbes; infant sister, Shirley Ann; sister, Patricia Dietrich; grandparents; several aunts; and his parents-in-law.
A memorial service was scheduled for Friday, June 5, 2026, at Major Erickson Funeral Home in Mason City, with Pastor Joel DeBoer officiating. Mike will be laid to rest at Park Cemetery in Nora Springs at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.
Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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