Tribute to David Forster Jr. 
(1988-2016)

David Forster was a graduate of Hopkins High School in 2007 and of St. John’s University in 2011. While in high school and college, David participated and excelled on the Cross Country & Track teams. He was an enormous sports fan starting at a very young age. In June of 2016, David was out for an evening jog near his home in Northeast Minneapolis when he collapsed and passed away. There are no words to describe the loss that the Forster family and anyone who knew David will feel forever. David was a leader who graciously welcomed anyone and everyone whom he crossed paths with. He was always the person you could rely on and talk to – any time, any place. He was a wonderful son, a role model for his younger brothers, a great friend to many, and loving fiancé.

The Forster family has been involved with Hopkins Baseball for a very long time. Both of David’s brothers, Max and Sam, played for the High School and American Legion Programs during their time at Hopkins. David’s mother, Sandy, has been involved in the program even longer – dedicating countless time and tremendous energy as a Board Member through the years her sons played. 

The Forster family continues to support the American Legion Program to this day. This is no more evident than through the impact David’s passing had on the 2016 Millers team (David passed away mid-season last summer). Each Flyers and Millers player would dawn “DF” on their caps, and many players attended the funeral. David’s brother Max was the Assistant Coach on the Millers, and last year’s Head Coach, Jon Chhay, is also extremely close to the Forster family. Upon taking a brief leave of absence from the team, the two of them returned to inspire the Millers to a State Championship. All those close to last year’s Millers ball club know that David played an integral role in that postseason run, providing heavenly inspiration for all of the players and coaches in the Program. 

This summer, the Flyers and Millers will once again honor David Forster with a patch on all new uniform tops. The patch signifies more than the tragic loss that the Forster’s and anyone who knew David have experienced, including the Hopkins baseball community. It stands to signify the true essence of David’s being – love, friendship, leadership, kindness & inclusiveness.  All of these qualities can be found on the baseball field and in everyday life. It is important to the Forster family that we carry on David’s legacy each and every day we have on this earth – and carry it, we shall.

The Forster family is very grateful to the Hopkins Post 320 Association for honoring David in this way. The Forster’s would like to thank the Program for all of the support and love they have shown over the past year. It is a true testament of the leadership the Program has and how that support is displayed beyond the diamond.

The Forster family wishes the Flyers and Millers the very best of luck this summer.