Obituary of Robert Fortner

Robert Lee Fortner was born in Monroe, Michigan on August 13, 1941. He was one of six children born from the union of the late Major C. Fortner and Montana (Sweat) Fortner. Robert was a 1960 graduate of Monroe High School and received his Associates Degree in Business at Baker College. Robert married the love of his life, Betty Breeding on August 2, 1963 at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church. He supported his family as a Construction Superintendent for more than twenty-five years at various locations, Daniel International, Stolte, Walbridge Aldinger, and Fermi II Nuclear Power Plant to name a few and ten years at Chrysler Trenton Engine Plant, retiring in 2004. Robert had a big heart and great sense of humor. As quite the jokester, he was always teasing the grandchildren. Family was most important to Robert and enjoyed time spent with them. Robert had a love for guns and appreciated the outdoors pheasant hunting. He liked to make creative woodworking projects for friends and family and in his quiet time, Robert could be found watching his favorite western movies and TV shows. Robert, age 74, of Monroe passed away on December 31, 2015 at home. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by four siblings: Betty Besedich, Joyce Valentine, Arnold Fortner, and Donna Moody; a sister-in-law: Debbie Fortner; and two nephews: Robert C. Fortner and Gary Fortner. To cherish his memory he leaves his loving wife of 52 years, Betty; two daughters: Shelly (Roger) Prewitt, and Traci Angel of Monroe; a son: Rob (Lisa) Fortner of Georgia, and Jeff Angel ; one brother: Jerry Fortner of Monroe; one sister-in-law: Phyllis Fortner of Monroe; eight grandchildren: Rhandi (Bryce) Maus, Makenzie (Zach) Handlon, A1C Shea Prewitt, Drake Prewitt, Alexa and Austin Angel, Skylar and Cane Fortner; two great grandsons: Braxton Maus and Easton Handlon; one great-granddaughter on the way: Elliana Handlon; nineteen nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Friends may gather from 2:00pm-8:00pm on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His life will take place at 10:00am on Wednesday, January 6, 2016, also at Merkle's with Pastor Rick Massingill of North Monroe Street Church of God officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Kidney Association and the American Cancer Society. Online guests may leave words of comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.