Andre Brownson Forton

Andre B. Forton, born January 14, 1960, passed away suddenly on November 9, 2025. He was the only son of Roger Andre and Marcia Kaye (Williams) Forton.

Born in Traverse City, Michigan, Andre met his little red-haired girlfriend, Deb, in junior high at the age of 14. They’ve been together ever since — so inseparable that most people simply referred to them as “Deb&Andre.” The many phases of their life together were unique, creative, and always unpredictable.

They never had children, but there was always a dog or two to complete their family.

Andre was a true entrepreneur. As a young man, he sold crafts, later owned a chimney sweeping business, and worked alongside his parents at The Pro Strip Shop, where he honed his skills as a woodworker, antiques stripper, refinisher, and restorer. Always inventive, he and Deb transitioned into the art show circuit, creating wood and antler carvings and antler baskets.

There was also a stint at a lumber yard, where most of his paycheck was spent on exotic wood and supplies for more projects.

A vacation out west brought them to Utah on the Paiute ATV Trail, and they fell in love with the weather, the great outdoors, and the endless trails and parks to explore. They decided to make it their home. They loved documenting their adventures in creative Christmas cards for friends and family to enjoy.

Living in Utah led to another adventure: over a decade of hot air balloon chasing and crewing, traveling to rallies all over the West. Andre later took up window washing as a career, enjoying the freedom of working outdoors.

In recent years, he transitioned into retail to wind down toward retirement — sadly, he didn’t quite make the countdown to that next adventure.

Andre was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Deb, and their beloved dogs, Karma and Kizzy.

Cremation has taken place, and no services are planned at this time. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary of Richfield, Salina, & Manti, Utah. An online guestbook can be found at www.maglebymortuary.com