Robert F. Fortin

WINSLOW – Robert F. Fortin, 91, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, at home in Winslow, Maine, surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born in Winslow, Maine, Nov. 20, 1930, where he lived his entire life. His parents were Alphonse (Peter) and Julia Fortin. He grew up in a large family of eight boys and two girls; he was the last surviving sibling. Robert was part-owner of Fortin’s Meat Market and Sunnyside Dairy Farm in Winslow, Maine. He was in business with his father and brothers – Gerard, George and Donald – for many years.

In grade school, he met his future wife – Joan (Little) Fortin. They attended Winslow High School together and graduated in 1951. Robert was captain of the football team during his senior year in high school. Dad and mom were married in January 1952 and recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. Together they lovingly raised four children. Sadly, Joan passed away on Easter Sunday this year.

Family was of utmost importance to dad. He adored his children and their spouses:

Cynthia and Michael Soule, Corning, N.Y.; Karen Sidelinger and Michael Thibodeau, Fairfield; Robert and Donna Fortin,China; and Janet and Brian Ellis, Winslow.

Dad was was blessed with 10 grandchildren: Matthew (Mandie) Hall, Upton, Mass.; Mark (Stacey) Hall, Belmont; Nathan Sidelinger, Fairfield; David (Tedi) Soule, Raleigh, N.C.; Sara Siglin, Corning, N.Y.; Rob (Christy) Fortin, Troy, N.Y.; Nicole Fortin, NYC, N.Y.; Brian (Lauran) Ellis, China; Jason (Sasha Rolland) Ellis, Waterville; and Troy (Katie) Ellis, Clinton. He was lovingly called “Gicky” by all his grandchildren (a name given to him by his first grandchild Matthew). He always called them his “pals”.

Dad was also fortunate to have 13 great-grandchildren: Bella, Lauren, Drew, Macie, Sadie, Ava, Ella, Robbie, Aubrie, Cole, Rowan, Avery Rose, Leo and soon to be born Madelyn Joan. He loved seeing them as often as possible and always enjoyed hearing about their lives.

In his younger years, he loved to fish and spend time with family at our grandparent’s camp on Webber Pond. So much family fun swimming, fishing, eating and laughing. His sweet personality and fun sense of humor will be deeply missed by all of us who loved him so much. We are happy that he will be reunited in heaven with his loving wife and many relatives and friends that he has missed so much over the years.

Our family is deeply appreciative for the amazing care he received from Beacon Hospice. We could not have gotten through this very difficult time without the care and love that was shown to our dear dad and entire family. Our thanks to two very special nurses, Bri and Jess. Your compassion will never be forgotten by our family.

A Mass of Christian burial will be Celebrated at 10 a.m., on Thursday, September 1, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow. Interment to follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville,. Please join us afterward for a reception at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. Please share your memories in the online guestbook at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s name to:

St. Jude’s – 800-213-6584

Memorial Giving

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105

or

Beacon Hospice –

207-621-1212

Amedisys Foundation

5 Community Dr.

Augusta, ME 04330