Obituary of Raymond F. Fortier

Raymond F. Fortier, 85, loving and generous husband and father died peacefully on January 24th in Naples, Florida. In his final months, Ray confidently told family members that he lived a great life, accomplished all that he had hoped for and was particularly proud of the family he now leaves behind. The second of five orphaned children born during the Great Depression, he was raised on a chicken farm in Chester, CT. Despite humble roots the life that he built can be attributed to a wonderful combination of a loving wife, an impressive work ethic, and God’s grace. Wed to Joan (Murphy) Fortier in April 1960, they were married for 61 years until her death in August 2021. Though their parting saddened him greatly, he was surrounded by family (young and old) in his final months, enjoying a steady stream of out-of-town family guests, attending little league baseball games, perusing the daily NY Post newspaper, and prognosticating on sports and politics. Ray was a supportive and loving Dad to his four children. As a father he was a great listener and slow to criticize. More importantly, he set a great example of devotion to family, putting pride in one’s work, and looking within for your success. His example and a lifetime of memories will bless his family forever. Ray leaves behind a proud legacy through his children and grandchildren: Raymond & Suzanne Fortier (Moodus, CT), Michael & Jeri Fortier (Old Lyme, CT), Kimberley & Allen Alonzo (Haddam, CT) and Jeffrey & Caitlin Fortier (Naples, FL) along with 13 grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00Am on Saturday, February 5th at Ray’s childhood parish, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 48 Middlesex Avenue in Chester, CT. Burial will follow in Fountain Hill Cemetery, 57 High Street in Deep River. A luncheon reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to benefit fatherless children www.psalm68five.org