Gwendoline Alpha Young Fortune

Roger, not sure if you remember me but just had to reach out when I saw your Moms obituary. I´m so sorry to see that your mother passed way. I totally remember her at Old Orchard JH and know she was friends with my Dad. My condolences to your family. Todd Custer

Wow! I was just looking up my old friend and this came up. I sit with my tears. I was her “handyman” when she lived in Saxapahaw, NC. We talked for hours about anything. I loved that lady and still do. I am honored to have gotten to know her.

Wow! I was just looking up my old friend and this came up. I sit with my tears. I was her “handyman” when she lived in Saxapahaw, NC. We talked for hours about anything. I loved that lady and still do. I am honored to have gotten to know her.

Wow! I was just looking up my old friend and this came up. I sit with my tears. I was her “handyman” when she lived in Saxapahaw, NC. We talked for hours about anything. I loved that lady and still do. I am honored to have gotten to know her.

At last I was able to find out what happened to my dear friend. We were best friends in Chicago. My last found memory of her was from visiting with her in Carolina and speaking with her when she moved to Texas. She was a very special person! Rich in talent. Even today I miss her. My sympathy to her sons.

Dr. Gwendoline Fortune made an impression on me as a shy freshman at Oakton Community College in 1972. I have never forgotten how she courageously shared her personal experiences to help us sheltered young people begin to get in touch with feelings on race. With all that is occurring in the "Black Lives Matter" movement my thoughts have been with her. Rest in sweet peace dear lady. Thank you and God bless you.

I am shocked to hear of Gwen's passing. I first encountered her as my 7th grade English teacher at Old Orchard Jr. High.... she called me her "little clothes horse." We met again at Oakton Community College, Morton Grove campus, where she was my instructor.Years later, I encountered her again, when she and I both taught at the Skokie and Des Plaines campuses of Oakton. Some months back, I looked for, and located, her Facebook page, and sent her a message. She was really an inspiration...

Two of my fave memories of Gwen: battling her for the Laudate Dominum solo when Skokie Valley Choir did the Mozart Vespers in 1970 ( she won) and singing In Dulce Jubilo by Buxtehude in a trio along with Leigh Williams under Thelma Wilcox's Baton at Church of the Atonement on Ardmore. Mrs Fortune was not only a great and dedicated educator, but an elegant and kickbutt soprano!!! My prayers for peace and calm to her loved ones and a smile- knowing you have many magnificent memories to treasure!

I remember her well from her Skokie days. What a talent! She will be sorely missed.