Thomas Michael Fortney

Thomas M. Fortney

On Friday June 2, 2023 Tom went to be with the Lord in a peaceful sleep, he was 86. Born January 2, 1937 to Jesse Ray and Letha (Armitage) Fortney in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. Tom was raised in Darwin, CA and graduated from Lone Pine High School in 1955. He served in the Armed Forces for three years (1955-1958) as part of the 507 th Engineers which included a tour in France. He was a long time Ridgecrest resident working at NAWS, China Lake for 30 years as a facilities management specialist, retiring in 1992. Prior to his career with NAWS his
employment adventures included firefighter, LA County deputy sheriff, and local propane delivery. Most people in the Indian Wells Valley remember Tom as a referee and umpire for local sports programs in the high desert. His love of sports was only outweighed by the love he had for his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Jess Ray Fortney, the loving mother of his children Linda Harinek, sisters Grace Oakden and Judith Curry; and stepdaughter Michelle Arredondo.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 34 years Eva Fortney, sisters Patricia Hawkins, Shirley Wilson, and Georgia (Norman) Thompson. Children, Daughter-In-Law Michele (Fortney) Beaton and children Rachel and Hannah; Kathryn and Edward Ballinger and their children Jessica and James; Thomas and Netta Fortney and their children Travis and Catey; Robert and Jennifer Fortney and their children Conner, Cayden, and Caleb; Daniel Fortney and his children Taylor and Jacob; Stepdaughters Denise (Brook) Veltman and Stephanie (Billy) Meeks and their children Dylan, Tyler and Megan; and step grandchildren Amber (Tyler) Lopez, Richard Wahl and Amanda Abercrombie and his adored 10 great-grandchildren within his beloved blended family. Also his many nephews and nieces that spanned the country and globe who called him Uncle Bud.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity in his name to honor his legacy.