Joan Little Fortin

WINSLOW – Joan Little Fortin, 89, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, at Lakewood Nursing Home in Waterville, Maine, after enduring a difficult journey with dementia. Joan was born in Farmington, Conn., Jan. 6, 1933. Her parents were John (Bill) and Doris (Field) Little. She moved to Maine at a young age and lived in Winslow most of her life. In grade school, she met her future husband – Robert Fortin. They attended Winslow High School together and graduated in 1951. They married in January 1952 and recently celebrated 70 years of marriage – an example of true love for all of us. Together they lovingly raised four children.Family was of utmost importance to mom. She adored her children and their spouses: Cynthia and Michael Soule of Corning, N.Y.; Karen Sidelinger and Michael Thibideau of Fairfield; Robert and Donna Fortin of China; and Janet and Brian Ellis of Winslow.She was also blessed with 10 grandchildren: Mathew (Mandie) Hall of Upton, Mass.; Mark (Stacey) Hall of Belmont, Nathan Sidelinger of Fairfield; David (Tedi) Soule of Raleigh, N.C.; Sara Soule of Corning, N.Y.; Rob (Christie) Fortin of Troy, N.Y.; Nicole Fortin of New York City; Brian (Lauran) Ellis of China; Jason (Sasha) Ellis of Waterville, and Troy (Katie) Ellis of Clinton.One of mom’s favorite things in life was “babies”. So of course, she thought each great-grandchild was the most beautiful and smartest child ever born. She was blessed to have 11 great-grandchildren: Bella, Lauren, Drew, Macie, Sadie, Ava, Ella, Aubrie, Robbie, Cole, and Rowan. We cannot forget little Leo and soon to be born Avery Rose!Probably the best memories of mom were times we all spent together at camp on Webber Pond with all the people she loved so much: Gram and Poppy Little; Uncle Elmer and Aunt Irene; Cousins Wendy, Lynne, and John; and many relatives from Connecticut who would visit each summer. So much fun swimming, fishing, eating, and laughing. I’m sure mom is smiling again in Heaven with her beloved mom, dad, brother Elmer and sister-in-law Irene.Our family is deeply appreciative to the amazing staff at Lakewood Nursing Home and Beacon Hospice for the care and love that was shown to our dear mom, dad, and entire family at this difficult time. Special thanks to Nurse Sheila whose many many phone calls were so appreciated and your kind words to “Joanie” (as you called her) will never be forgotten by our family.A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Tuesday, May 3, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow. Interment to follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville. Please join us afterward for a reception at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville.Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville, ME. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s name to:St. Jude’s800-213-6584Memorial Giving501 St. Jude PlaceMemphis, TN 38105orBeacon Hospice207-621-1212Amedisys Foundation5 Community DriveAugusta, ME 04330