Rita Marie Fortin

Rita was born on August 25, 1929, in Marquette, a daughter of Earl and Orelia (Bolduc) Ocha. She was raised in Marquette Township at the little store her parents owned on the Big Bay Road, near the railroad tracks. Rita attended St. Michael Elementary School.

In 1948, she was united in marriage to John Fortin. Rita’s father, Earl, designed their home, with Rita’s husband and later their children helping to build it. Rita resided her entire life in the home she loved on the Big Bay Road. A devoted stay-at-home mother, she lovingly-yet with a firm hand-raised her children. She often joked that she would have kept her dark hair had it not been for the children, especially the boys, turning it gray.

Throughout the years, Rita enjoyed homemaking pursuits such as quilting, canning, and caring for her family. Walks along Presque Isle beach and listening to country music with her husband were among her most treasured moments. Thrift store excursions with her daughter-in-law, Sarah, were adventures she greatly enjoyed. Rita also loved all things Mickey Mouse and proudly kept a collection of Mickey memorabilia. Her son, Charles, once took her on a special vacation to Disney World in Florida-a trip she especially loved to recall.

A loving mother and grandmother, Rita is survived by her children: John (Linda) Fortin, Rose (Ron) Morrison, Charles (Tina) Fortin, Albert (Sarah) Fortin, and William Fortin; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her husband, John; a daughter-in-law, Betty Fortin; grandchildren, Oralia Fortin and Laura Fortin; her sister, Gladys Kantola, and her husband, Charles; brothers, John Earl “Buck” Ocha and infant brother, Albert Ocha.

Arrangements for services at a later date will be announced.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com