Joseph Edward Fortner

Joseph E. Fortner passed away at his home in Phoenix, Arizona on the evening of August 9, 2011, with his family by his side. He was 94 years old. He was born in Tucson, Arizona on July 7, 1917 to Alec and Helena Fortner, and was the oldest son of 5 children. He was known as “Ed” to his family and was the last surviving sibling. Ed was raised in Prescott, AZ before moving to his parent’s farm in Glendale, AZ. He attended Phoenix Union High School and Phoenix Jr. College, then joined the Merchant Marines as a marine machinist during WWII. While living in Long Beach, California, he met his future wife Lillian D. Ramey. They were married on June 20, 1945. He returned with his family to Glendale, AZ in 1957, and Ed worked for Tanner Pre-stressed Concrete in Phoenix until his retirement. Ed is survived by 4 of his 5 children; Michael Fortner, Mary Materko, Jeanette Moore, and Dorothy Slavin. He is also survived by two of his grandsons, John Fortner and Jim Fortner, whom he and his wife raised from childhood. In addition to 15 other grandchildren, he is survived by 15 great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and his sister-in-law Naomi Fortner. He was preceded in death by his wife Lillian Darlene and his son William E. Fortner. Ed was a much loved family man, and will be missed by all that knew him. Viewing will be private, with cremation to follow. His remains will be placed along side of those of his wife and son. Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 3220 W. Greenway Rd., Phoenix, AZ on Monday, August 22, 2011 at 11:00 AM, with inurnment to follow at Phoenix Memorial Park, 200 W. Beardsley Rd., Phoenix, AZ. Arrangements entrusted to Phoenix Memorial Mortuary.