John F. Fortner, 70, of Thornville, died Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at the Pickering House. He was born October 9, 1946 in Circleville, Ohio the son of John Withee and Shirley R. (Stevens) Fortner. He was a 1964 graduate of Laurelville High School, a veteran of the United States Navy and was retired as a Main Frame Adminstrator. John was an active member of Lancaster United Brethren Church, Cornerstone Gospel Quartet, Bremen Senior Citizens and a volunteer at Fairfield Medical Center.
John is survived by his wife of 45 years, Judith Ann (Johnston) Fortner, whom he married June 12, 1971; son, Ryan Fortner; daughter, Heather (Barry) Stiverson; grandchildren, Rylie Carithers and Emma Stiverson; sisters, Becky (Mike) Poling and Rachel Brown; aunt, Carol Fortner of Indiana; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Fortner; sisters, Sharon Nungster and Naoma Schmitt.
A celebration of life memorial service will take place Sunday, November 13, 2016 at 3 PM in the Lancaster United Brethren in Christ Church with Rev. Greg Voight and Rev. Joe Leighton officiating.
Contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Lancaster United Brethren Church, 1125 Pleasantville Road, Lancaster, Ohio 43130. Online condolences at
www.morganfuneralhomeohio.com