July 8, 2022

Jim was born on November 28, 1941, in Denton, Texas, to Elmer and Loreta Fortner. After graduating from Victoria High School in Victoria, Texas, he attended Southern Methodist University where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.  It was there he met his wife of 58 years, Kathy.

Jim spent three years in the Army where he was with the 27th Field Hospital. He went to Viet Nam in 1969. After returning to the states he pursued a career in sales.

Upon moving to Colorado Springs from Houston, Texas in 1989 Jim and Kathy joined First United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs where he was a member of the Kerygma class, drove the church bus, and served as an usher.  He was a volunteer at the Colorado Springs airport. He had a heart for veterans and found many ways to serve those returning from deployments. Jim loved spending time with his family and friends, and especially loved spending time hiking in the mountains.

Jim is survived by his wife, Kathy; his daughters Paige Atkinson (Gene) and Christy Green (Brent); his sister Jan LaViolette (Wally); 6 grandchildren and a niece and nephew.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation or the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Celebration of Life service to be held on Saturday, August 6, at 11:00 in the chapel of First United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs.

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This Obituary Has 2 Condolences

  1. Dear Kathy, learned of Jim’s passing from Sarah. Have so many happy memories of Jim in Dallas, Houston and elsewhere. Sending our prayers to you and family for your comfort and peace. Love, Ginger (Carey) and Fred Polley

  2. Our hearts are with you constantly, dear Kathy, and we’re so very sorry for the loss of your precious Jim. We love you.

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