Richard Wayne Forney

Richard, or "Rick" Forney as he was known by his family, was born November 17, 1957, in Inglewood, California. He Attended La Tijera Elementary School until the 6th grade when his family moved to University Park in Irvine. He graduated from University High School in 1976.
He began taking piano lessons at the age of 9. It wasn't long before it was clear that music and art would become his lifelong passions. In high school, Rick joined the Drama club. He had a lead part in the school musical, "Fiddler on the Roof" and also starred in the "Fantasticks." In his later years, Rick won a contest and the lead part in a musical at the famed Hyperion Theatre in Disney's California Adventure Park. Besides the Piano, Rick also played the organ, harmonica, ukulele, and banjo. Rick was an old soul who loved music from the 20's 30's and 40's and collected Victrolas and old phonographs and records. He was interested in family history and did extensive research on his ancestry and the Forney Family Tree. He had a deep love for his savior, Jesus Christ and left behind a journal of his heart for Christ.
After high school, Rick had many jobs, among them, the Daily Pilot News Paper, Bard Medical Manufacturing in Irvine, and as a designer and deliverer for a well-known florist to the stars. The job he will most be remembered for is working the night shift at Disneyland. The manager of the exclusive Club 33 Restaurant was so impressed with Rick's work and attention to detail, that he treated him and 3 guests to a VIP 5-star dinner. His department also awarded him "Cast Member of the year," an award started by Walt Disney himself to honor employees who go above and beyond in their duties and play a vital role in Disneyland's success.
Rick is survived by his parents, Richard and Peggy Forney, His sisters Darla Fraser and Lori Bohen and his brother-in law, Scott Fraser. Although he had no children of his own, he was loved by his nieces, Kristina Bell, Jenna Soukup; nephews Christopher Bohen, Nicholas Bohen, Jason Bohen, and Chad Fraser, as well as 4 great nieces and nephews, Carter, Lacey, Hunter and Preston. He will also be remembered by many cousins and friends who loved the special and unique person Rick was.