Frederick C. Fortlander

Frederick C. Fortlander, residing in South Bend, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, August 15, 2025. He was 94 years old.

He was born May 19, 1931, in Fostoria, Ohio, a son of the late Orville H. & Lala (Wickman) Fortlander. At the age of five, his family moved to Toledo, OH where he resided until 1966. He graduated from DeVilbiss High School, Toledo, and served in the Naval Reserve. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1950, stationed in Germany and served in Korea as Sargeant 1st Class.

On August 27, 1954, in Toledo, he was married to the love of his life, Marsha F. Collins. They would have celebrated 71 years of marriage this month. While living in Toledo, Fred was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Augsburg Lutheran Church, and Westminster Presbyterian Church where he sang in the choirs and served as Deacon. Also, Boy Scouts, Envoy of Ohio, and Indian Guides-YMCA.

Along with his bride Marsha, he is survived by his two sons, Kenneth C. (Jennifer) Fortlander of South Bend, and Ronald Alan (Karen) Fortlander of Portland, OR, daughter-in-law, Lori Fortlander of Greenwood, IN. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, along with two nieces. He was preceded in death by his son Daniel J. Fortlander on June 10, 2017, and his sister, Betty L. Felkey in 2007.

In 1966 Fred and Marsha moved their family to South Bend. He worked as a traveling salesman for forty-five years of Dr. Scholl's and Shering Plough. They became members of Sunnyside Presbyterian Church where Fred sang in the choir and served as a Deacon and Elder. He also was a member and Secretary for South Bend Lodge #294, F. & AM., and belonged to St. Joseph Lodge #45, F. & AM. He also was a member of Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of South Bend and its choir, Orak Shrine, and the Barbershop Chorus.

There will be no services at this time. The family will observe a private service at a later date. He will be laid to rest at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. The Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.