Francis Gilman Kaoao Forsythe

Francis Gilman Ka'oa'o Forsythe, 84, of Hale'iwa, O'ahu, passed away on October 5, 2020. He was born July 28, 1936 in Kahuku, O'ahu to Adam Ka'oa'o and Elizabeth Kahakulani Gilman Forsythe. He was reared along with his two older brothers, Edward William and Byron Gilesman, who have predeceased him. He is survived by older sisters, Luahiwa Jorgen Walk and Mary Maile Riggin.

Francis was a proud 1954 graduate of Kamehameha Schools. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting with a minor in Japanese from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. His devotion to the Lord found him serving in multiple volunteer positions in his church positively impacting the lives of many. After graduating from BYU, he volunteered as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was assigned to Japan where he developed a deep love, respect and admiration for the Japanese people, culture and language. Linguistics fascinated Francis and he continued to learn new languages throughout his life.

Upon completion of the 2 ½ year missionary service, Francis started his career at CINCPACFLT at the Naval Base in Pearl Harbor as a budget analyst and continued to build his skills throughout his 31 years of civilian service.

Francis began playing the piano as a child and slowly mastered the instrument. As his talent improved and his love for music increased, he taught family members and others to play the piano. He volunteered as a pianist and organist for church services, weddings and to simply delight his family and friends.

A loving and devoted son, he cared for his parents in their aging years until they passed away. Francis had a deep love for his extended family and was very close to his cousins. He is also adored by many nieces and nephews and was often referred to as “my favorite uncle”. They have been on the receiving end of his devoted kindness and endless generosity.

We love you, Uncle Francis! God be with you, till we meet again!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BorthwickOahu.com for the Forsythe family.

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