Robert W Fortner

Robert (Bobby) Fortner, age 86, of Columbus, passed away peacefully Monday, February 21, 2022 surrounded by his family following a battle with cancer. He was born September 13, 1935 in Columbus, Ohio, the son of the late David F. Fortner Sr and Charlotte (Hellman) Fortner. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Donald Fortner; sister, Carol Fortner Fann; nephew Kelly Bailey, stepson, John Iaquinta and very dear friend, Donald Parker. Bobby is survived by his wife Edna “Jamie” Fortner; his children, Lynda Fortner, Jeffrey Fortner, Scott Fortner and Robyn Fortner; his step- children, Jamie Iaquinta and Tom Iaquinta; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, David F. (Darcy) Fortner, Jr. and Jerry (Linda) Fortner; the mother of his children, Donna Fortner; sister-in-law, Donna Fortner and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews and many close and dear friends. Bobby was a huge Ohio State fan and loved to bowl. He belonged to a league at Main Lanes for a number of years with his brothers and father. Bobby was always willing to lend a hand. All you had to do was say Hey, need your help and he was there. You could always count on his support. He loved his family unconditionally. He always had a great story to tell and never met a person he couldn’t start up a conversation with. Bobby was a longtime member of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 189 and a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He joined the Marines at age 17, enlisting with his best friends, Don Parker and Ronnie Castle. He was stationed in Japan, San Diego and Parris Island, NC. After his discharge, he attended school for Heating and Air Conditioning and was employed by Reynolds Plumbing and Heating for over 30 years. He became a member of Local 189 on March 4, 1958 and sat on the Examining Board for most of his time. Family and friends may call 4-8 pm Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at SCHOEDINGER EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5360 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43232. Please wear your favorite Buckeye gear. Funeral services will be held 1:30 pm Thursday at the Funeral Home. Interment with honors to follow Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Please visit www.schoedinger for the complete obituary and to share a memory or send condolences to Bobby’s family.