Douglas W. Fortune

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Douglas W. Fortune announces his sudden passing at the age of 56 on February 20, 2026. Doug was born on December 10, 1969, in Ticonderoga, NY to Rev. Bernard and Lucile (Smith) Fortune. He was the youngest of seven children. His family moved to Ogdensburg when he was just two years old. Doug was raised in the parsonage of his family's church where he learned much about faith, hard work and commitment– qualities he continued to display throughout his lifetime.

Doug graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy in 1987 and entered the work force. He worked at Donut King, Stella, ACCO distribution and later went to work at St Lawrence Psychiatric Center in 2010. He spent two years as a therapy aide and later transferred to the safety department, where he worked until his passing. He enjoyed his time at SLPC and all those he met and had the pleasure of working with.

Doug is survived by his wife, Jennifer, who he devoted himself to with unwavering love, loyalty, time and energy. They met in 1994 and began their family in 1998. In 2017, they decided to marry, joking that it took 24 years because they wanted to "be sure." They were married on July 21, 2018.

He is also survived by his son, Seth Fortune, and Seth's wife, Chelsea. His daughter, Rheanne Fortune, and her partner, Michael Paige, also survive him. The joys of Doug's life were his grandchildren: Rosie Lyn, Slater Jameson, and Amery Jade Fortune. Doug's siblings-brothers Greg (Denise), David, Steve (Val), and Dan Fortune; and sisters Jo (Lenore) Belser and Deb Fortune-mourn his passing, along with nieces and nephews who adored and respected him.

His dog, Suzie, will miss their daily walks. Odafin, his cat and "little buddy," will also miss him greatly. Doug was predeceased by his parents, Bernard and Lucile, as well as his loyal dog, Nico.

Doug was an amazing father. He raised his children to have good work ethics and to be accountable for their own actions. He taught them that it takes action to make a change. Doug admired his children for their accomplishments and made sure to always let them know how proud he was and how much he loved them. They are much like their father and will provide great comfort to Jenn moving forward. Doug took immense pride in being "grampa" and playing with his grandbabies. He was their own personal jungle gym. He made sure that all play centered around learning.

Over Doug's 56 years, he made an impression on countless people. He amassed a group of friends who held him in high regard. He was a man to be admired and respected. His intellect was one of curiosity and depth, continuously learning and exploring. He was forever questioning the status quo. Doug was beyond passionate about weightlifting from an early age and achieved many remarkable accomplishments with his athletic abilities over the years. He loved heavy metal music and spent countless hours playing his guitar, doing play-throughs of his favorite songs, and creating the lyrics and music to his own songs. He created a YouTube page, @riverdragon169, where he had posted his music for like-minded musicians and friends to check out.

Jenn, Seth and Rheanne would like to extend their gratitude to all their friends and family that have reached out, stopped by and made sure the necessities were provided. Throughout this time of great pain and anguish, they thank you all for the hugs, kind words, company and moments of silence when there are no words to be found. They have been a blessing in this dark time. To name them all would be almost impossible, they know who they are.

Per the wishes of Doug and his family, there will be no service at this time. There will be a celebration of his life when the weather is warm and the sun is shining.