It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Charles "Pat" LaFortune, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, and coach. Pat tragically lost his life in a devastating 12-car accident.
Pat was born in Hagersville, Ontario, Canada. After becoming a United States citizen, he served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1968, as a medic in Vietnam.
Pat dedicated 51 years to teaching, 46 of which were at Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa, California as a teacher and coach, making him the school's longest-serving faculty member. He taught Earth Science, Mathematics, Driver's Education & Training, and was Chair of the Social Studies and P.E. departments for many years. Pat coached football, baseball and track and field, then created the school's cross country program in 1979. He coached both cross country and track and field at CN for 40 years until he retired. The track was named in his honor in 2013. He was also a well-known referee for football and basketball in the North Bay.
Pat loved teaching and coaching. He was deeply committed to his students and athletes, both in the classroom and on the field. He was known for his dedication to their growth and well-being, leaving a lasting impact on the lives he touched.
He is survived by his wife, Noël Schumacher LaFortune; his children, Michele Yockey (Ron), Michael LaFortune (Michelle), and Jonathan LaFortune (Adrianne); and 12 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Marie Houston (Fred), and brothers, Michael LaFortune (Liz) and David LaFortune (Trish).
His loss is deeply felt by all.
An endowed scholarship, the Patrick LaFortune Endowed Scholarship, has been established at Cardinal Newman in his honor to provide financial support to deserving students. Donations can be made here: https://www.cardinalnewman.org/support/patrick-lafortune-endowment) or via check to:
Cardinal Newman High SchoolAttn: Memorial Gift4320 Old Redwood HighwaySanta Rosa, CA 95403
A memorial service will be held at the Cardinal Newman High School track named in his honor on Saturday September 28 at 6 p.m. All are welcome to attend. Please wear tennis or track shoes if you would like to join in a walk around the track in his honor at the end of the service.
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