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YOUNGSTOWN - James Edward Fortnat, 89, died peacefully on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at his home.
Jim was born on May 17, 1937, in Youngstown, a son of John “Jack” Fortnat and the former Jesse M. Clemens.
He was a graduate of Austintown Fitch High School in 1954 and went on to dedicate his career to plumbing, serving as a member of the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 396 for 65 years.
Jim was a longtime member of St. Brendan Church and later joined St. Joseph Church.
“Jim / Fort” Fortnat liked to stay active, and you could always find him out working in the garage, shed or barn on some new and exciting project. He was also passionate about gardening and fishing. Every activity Jim enjoyed, he put his whole heart into it. Back in the day, Jim had the best Celebrity tomatoes and Italian garlic in town.
He was a devoted fan of both the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Jim was blessed to marry Judy B. Martin early in life, and they had many good years together before Judy passed away in December 1992. Jim and Judy had three children together - Christine DiMailo of Austintown, Natalie (Tim) Vinopal of Canfield and Jimmy Jr., now deceased.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sheryl Ferguson Fortnat, whom he married on Sept. 20, 1997; his daughters, Christine DiMailo and Natalie (Tim) Vinopal; his brother, Jack A. (Bette) Fortnat of Chelmsford, Massachusetts; and many favorite nieces, nephews and extended family.
His most treasured moments were his time spent with his five grandchildren, Nicole and Monica DiMailo, and Timothy Vinopal, Annie (Tony) Kopatich and Kelly (Josh) Wakeford; and five great-grandchildren, Victoria (Nick) Davis, Dominic DiMailo, Anthony James, Stella Marie and Tessa Noelle Kopatich; and a great-great-grandchild, due in April. They are the loves of his life, and he cherished every minute with them.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his son, James E. Fortnat Jr.
Calling hours will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 4303 Mahoning Ave.
Prayers will be at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at St. Blaise Parish, St. Joseph Church.
Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donate to your favorite charity or consider donating to operationexodususa.org as a special request.
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