James R. Fortunato Sr.

Waterville—James R. Fortunato, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully at Inland Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 4, 1924 to Joseph and Rose (Zitelli) Fortunato, Sr., in Bay Shore, New York.

Upon graduating from high school in 1942, he entered the U.S. Army and served in the motor pool at Fort Dix, New Jersey.

He married Jacqueline LaVista on August 31, 1947 and together they raised 5 children. He was a self-employed carpenter his entire life having built many beautiful homes, kitchens, alters and furniture. He built alters in catholic churches in Bay Shore, New York and Vassalboro, Maine.

James served as a volunteer treasurer in Boy Scout Troop 10 in Bay Shore and was a founding and lifetime member of the Bay Shore - Brightwaters Volunteer Rescue Ambulance.

Jim and Jackie retired to South China in 1988 where he built his retirement home. Jim donated much of his time to his Catholic faith by serving as Eucharistic Minister and Sacristan at St. Bridget’s in Vassalboro.

He was predeceased by his parents, sister Mary Nichols and brother Joseph Fortunato, Jr.

James is survived by his loving wife Jackie and his children Susan and husband George Viscarelli, James R. Fortunato, Jr. and wife Mary Elizabeth, Richard and wife Joyce Fortunato, Michael and wife Catherine Fortunato, Christopher and wife Rebecca Fortunato; nine grandchildren, Janine and husband Ryan Giroux, Katherine Fortunato, Elissa Viscarelli, Kristy and husband Edward David, Michael and wife Tara Viscarelli, Amy and husband Michael Ballenger, Megan and Matthew Fortunato, Nicholas Fortunato; six great-grandchildren; and sisters Josephine Gagliano and Ann Smith.

A mass of Christian burial will be 11 AM, Friday, October 14th at St. John Catholic Church, Monument Street in Winslow followed by committal at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.