We're sure you knew Gene 'Ace' Forman had been in a car accident in August before his senior year and that he spent many months in the hospital and had been told he would never walk and living 45 years would be a goal.
(He died at age 79 on Aug. 20, 2023.)
He had always wanted to be a football coach but many questioned the feasibility of that, being in a wheelchair. He would prove everyone wrong as he coached over 40 years. His players would learn so much more than just football. They learned to live a life of purpose and values of loyalty, tolerance, perseverance, and the importance of having a positive at attitude.
What can we tell you about our best friend Ace? Did you know
he earned 12 varsity letters in high school, and played tuba?
Did you know he was an All American football player for
Linfield and after his accident Bob went to visit him in the hospital and Ace
asked him to wear his number until he could come back? Bob did and took his
position as well.
Did you know Linfield established the Gene Forman
Inspirational Award?
You probably know he was respected and loved by his players.
One said, "He was dealt a bad hand but he played it the best he
could." We learned that whatever you do give it your best. "Coach
knew from experience you could triumph over adversity and he would help many
players who were going through a difficult time."
Did you know he was a collector of friends? If you were his
friend you would be his friend for life. His address book had so many names and
many had 4 different addresses and new phone numbers. He never wanted to lose a
friend. A huge number of players kept in contact with him. Some thought of him
as their Dad.
Did you know that one of those players who considered him his
Dad went to Linfield and Ace helped financially? Now a retired principal, he is
coaching at Geo Fox who we play for Homecoming. He was there for Ace's last
day, holding his hand.
Did you know he was a Godfather and a Great Godfather? Many
friends had their children call him Uncle Ace. He was the most admired man we
ever knew.
If you knew him you loved him. Do you know how many are going
to miss him? We don't either but we know we will, Nan and Bob
From Nan for Linfield Homecoming October 2023
Photo of Ace from Linfield Homecoming September 2022
