John Cyril Fortier

John Cyril Fortier, 83, of Barefoot Bay Florida passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Creator on July 18, 2016. He was the beloved husband to Denise G. Fortier for the last 61 years. Mr. Fortier, the son of Telesphore and Olympe Fortier, was born in Willimantic, Connecticut on November 24, 1932. He attended Saint Joseph School in Baltic Connecticut and Norwich Free Academy before becoming employed at the Baltic Textile Mill from 1950 to 1952. He then started his 36 year career with General Dynamics Electric Boat Division in Groton Connecticut. Drafted into the United States Army in January 1953 during the Korean War he was deployed to Japan to serve his country and was in the Army Reserve until 1961. Upon his return from Japan, John resumed his duties as a Shipfitter at Electric Boat Division in Groton Connecticut, essentially working his way up to Assistant Superintendent of Steel Trades, overseeing the construction of the first Trident submarine until his retirement on January 15th 1988 at the age of 55. During his residency in Franklin Connecticut he was actively involved in the community, being both President of the Sprague Rod & Gun Club and Commander of the American Legion in Baltic Connecticut from 1973 to 1975. During his golden years in Florida he became the 1st President of the St. Lukes Mens Club, Eucharist Minister, Lector and Altar Server for St. Lukes Parish and a Leader of the Cursillo Movement. An avid golfer and aspiring artist, John always found the time in his heart to help anyone in need. His soft demeanor and extreme kindness will be sorely missed by anyone whose life he has touched. He was predeceased by Paul Fortier, Norman Fortier and Celeste (Gadue) Fortier. He leaves behind his wife Denise, 3 sons, David, Keith and Scott Fortier and one daughter, Lynn Cardinal and several grandchildren.