WZMQ-TV’s Trevor Forsythe Passes – Was 2024 MAB Scholarship Recipient
August 29, 2025
Trevor Forsythe
Lilly Broadcasting's WZMQ-TV (Marquette) has announced the passing of photojournalist, director and colleague Trevor Forsythe. Forsythe passed away at 21 from complications of diabetes on August 21.
Forsythe attended Northern Michigan University in Marquette working toward a He joined WZMQ-TV in June of 2024.
In 2024, Trevor was awarded the Stephen A. Marks Foundation Scholarship by the MAB Foundation.
When the MAB talked with Trevor last year, he was studying multimedia production at Northern Michigan University with the aspirations of someday giving back by helping other broadcasting and media students find their paths in the industry.
He noted that NMU professor Michael Lakenen was an inspiration for him in that regard, saying, “He empowers a lot of students to go their own direction and figure things out.”
Regarding advice he had for future broadcasters, Trevor’s words were simple but powerful: remain true to who you are, and be open to new experiences.
“Just try to be yourself and be the best person that you can be. And work hard. That’s really all you need to get where you’ve got to go. All the skills are learnable, so as long as you’re willing to get out there and pick up the skills and try your best, then that’s all you need to succeed.”
Forsythe was the only child of Lori and Derek Forsythe, graduating from Almont High School in 2021. He was very involved in Scouting serving in both Troop 128 of Almont and Mackinac Island Scout Service Troop 127 of Lapeer. He completed a trek at Philmont Scout Ranch and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 2021. Forsythe was described as a "people person" and "could get along with anyone. He could find the good in any situation and had a talent for getting diverse group members to get along."
Forsythe (left) receiving his scholarship check from former MAB President/CEO Sam Klemet in 2024.
Posting on the station's website, his co-workers wrote, "Trevor was more than a coworker; he was a friend. He made our newsroom a brighter place when he walked in. His creativity behind the camera, his steady hand in the control room, and his passion for storytelling will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with Trevor’s family and loved ones as we honor his lasting impact on our news family."
His parents are planning a memorial celebration of Trevor's life for the near future. Trevor was interested in giving back to the community so a charitable fund will be created in his memory. Details of that fund will be shared as they develop and contributions in his memory would be appreciated.