Brian L. Fortner

Brian Lee Fortner was born on January 19, 1947 in McPherson, Kansas, the son of Archie Warren and Elda Luella (Weyand) Fortner. He grew up in Canton, Kansas, along with brother Keith, and graduated from Canton High School with the class of 1965. He was a lifelong resident of Canton, except for living a short time in Northern California. He was of the Christian faith. Brian attended the Canton Christian Church in his youth and was a former member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Canton. Most of Brian’s working career was spent in the plastics industry. He was employed by CertainTeed in McPherson and in California and Mid-Tech, which became Viega, in McPherson, retiring from there just recently. He was a former owner of Canton Recreation and in previous years ran a firearms business at his residence. The Canton American Legion was of great importance to Brian and he thoroughly enjoyed socializing with friends there. He was the lounge manager/bartender for many years and was involved in most of their activities and events. He was an avid NASCAR fan and liked vegetable gardening, as well. Brian was a devout animal lover. “One Eyed Jack”, his feline companion who he rescued, was his best buddy. Dear to his heart were his dogs, “BD”, “Ben” and “Bridget”, who were seen with him almost anywhere and everywhere. They were just like his own kids and he spoiled them rotten. Brian shared a close relationship with his brother Keith, Joyce and their dog Bo. He was also a loving, attentive son to his mother Elda until her death in 2006. He was an all around “nice guy”, who didn’t know a stranger. He was truly genuine, good natured and would help out a friend whenever possible. His family and friends meant the world to him and he cherished the time spent with them. He will be missed greatly by all. Brian entered into eternal rest after a brief illness on Wednesday evening, July 30, 2014 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. Survivors include his brother Keith and his companion, Joyce of Wichita, Kansas; two sons, Cory Fortner, Rancho Cordova, California and Doug McGinnis and his wife, Cindy of Abingdon, Illinois; two grandchildren; his feline companion, Jack and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 4, 2014 at the Canton Township Cemetery with Rev. Lynn Scott presiding. Friends may call Monday morning, August 4, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. until service time at Olson's Mortuary, Canton. A memorial has been established with the Canton American Legion Post #192, in care of the mortuary.

Brian L. Fortner

January 19, 1947 - July 30, 2014