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Daniel Fortlander Obituary
August 27, 1956 - June 10, 2017
WALKERTON - Daniel James Fortlander, 60, passed away at his home on Saturday, June 10, 2017 after a sudden illness.
Mr. Fortlander was born August 27, 1956 in Maumee, OH to Frederick and Marcia (Collins) Fortlander and lived in the area for 14 years, coming from South Bend.
On March 18, 1995 in South Bend, IN, he was married to the former Lori Wood, who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Shelby Fortlander and Mikayla Fortlander, both of Walkerton; one son, Caleb Fortlander of Walkerton; his parents, Fred and Marcia Fortlander of South Bend; two brothers, Ken (Jennifer) Fortlander of South Bend and Ron (Karen) Fortlander of Portland, OR; three nieces, Janessa Burns and Katie and Emily Fortlander; and one nephew, Kyle Fortlander.
Mr. Fortlander was a beloved Band Director at John Glenn High School for 32 years. He graduated from Ball State University in 1978 with a Bachelor of Music Degree. He was a member of the Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity and the American Music Association.
Funeral services will be Friday, June 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time at John Glenn High School with Pastor James Miller officiating. Burial will follow at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Walkerton. Friends may visit on Thursday at John Glenn High School from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in Mr. Fortlander's honor to the John Glenn High School Band Boosters Scholarship Fund.
Rannells Funeral Home, Koontz Lake Chapel is handling arrangements. To leave online condolences, visit rannellsfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Fortlander
Sponsored by Rannells Funeral Home - Koontz Lake Chapel Koontz Lake Chapel.
Rather not say
August 28, 2023
I never knew him, but I go to UMS where he used to work. He has a bench at JGHS with his quote: don't practice until you get it right, practice until you can't get it wrong. He also has a ceiling tile dedicated to him in the ums art room made by kenzie werntz and Gabby Smith that was made in 2017-2018 school year. I hope you know he is still remembered.
Dollise Archer
July 27, 2017
Lori,
I am so sorry for your loss. I just ran across this. I'm sending prayers for comfort and peace for you and your family.
Dolly
Shelly Fong
July 6, 2017
My condolences. Lori, my heart and prayers go out to you and your family.
Debbi Hull Kusch
June 28, 2017
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
June 20, 2017
So sorry for your loss. The promise of our Creator is something to look forward to that is found at John 6:40. May those words be soothing to help ease the pain during this difficult time.
Becky Shupert Ross
June 17, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Although my son, Corey Ross did not join band during his high school years of 1992 to 1996 he fondly thought of Dan as a great mentor and music director. I attended North Liberty HS in the 1960 's and was active in the band then. We were so pleased how well that importance of music carried on at John Glenn through the years as well.
Celena Sherwood and Tina Hostetler
June 16, 2017
I will never forget the time my Grandma came up to you at my last musical performance and gave you my kindergarten picture. You carried it around and showed everyone because you thought it was the most hilarious thing in the world. Daniel Fortlander was not just my friend, or supporter. He was my father figure throughout my years of middle school and high school. From 6th grade on you never left. You were there year after year and I loved you more than anything. I can't begin to describe all the laughs we've shared. From you calling me Oreo to me calling you Salt n Pepper. But what meant most to me was the last time I visited. My daughter was just born. And you didn't want to give her back. You looked at her just like my own Grandpa did when he first saw her. Told people to call you back because you were busy holding a baby. I promise to tell her that an incredible man once held her in his arms.
From the bottom of my heart thank you for getting me through some of the most difficult moments I've ever had in my life. It's never goodbye, but see you later I can handle for now. ❤️
Rest In Peace, Fort.
Cindy & Mark Wagoner
June 16, 2017
I have struggled to find the right words to put on this page, and I have yet to find them. Dan was the kindest, most loving family man, and caring band director I have ever known or had the privilege to work with. He and I had the most incredible time working together and our conversations since that time were always filled with the wonderful things he had to say about his family and his job. He loved JGHS and the students there. I wish I could be there to share how special my memories of Dan are with all of you who love him so very much and are hurting. He will live on in each of us, even as my heart aches. Such a loss for the community, and his family. We send peace, light, and love to you all.
Mike Vaszari
June 15, 2017
Fred and Marcia, Please accept our deepest sympathy in the loss of your son.
Elizabeth Harless / Quigg
June 15, 2017
Danny Fortlander,John Adams High School, I remember your smile......
Beth Harless / Quigg
June 15, 2017
John Adams High School . .I remember him well......
Dennis & Lynne Wise
June 15, 2017
Lori and family, Our deepest sympathy. We was shocked to hear of Dan's passing. My thoughts went back to Denise's graduation party when you both were here. Patti had my first grandbaby here at 2 weeks old and you held her..sitting next to Dan. Picture perfect. I know Denise was upset to hear the news. She had him in band 6 years. I pray the Lord wraps his arms around you and gives you peace. May he welcome Dan into Heaven with open arms. God Bless you all, and may Dan RIP
Donna (Medich) May
June 15, 2017
To the Fortlander family and many friends, My deepest heart felt condolences to all of you. I
had the privilege of listening and seeing Mr. Fortlander's great talent with the students at John Glenn, when my nephews B J Morgan along with Nicholas and Jacob Medich attended the school. May you all find peace at this difficult time.
Olivia Wojtas (Burger)
June 15, 2017
I'd like to send my sincere condolences to the Fortlander family, Fort is truly a man who will be missed by so many. I have so many fond memories of "band" years with him. He was a one of a kind teacher, even after I had left the band in high school I would still see him in the halls an he always made it a point to say hi, years later I would see him at parades an functions an he still always had that smile on his face. There will never be another like him.
Peter Tuttle
June 15, 2017
Lori, I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Please let the Lord cradle you in your time of need as he does all of his children in need.
Diane Vermillion
June 15, 2017
My sympathy and prayers go out to the Fortlander family. Dan's musical talent and upbeat attitude left a mark on the community that will long endure.
Hillary (Rogers) Watkins
June 15, 2017
Like so many others who lived or grew up in Walkerton, Mr. Fortlander had a tremendous impact on my life and on my entire family. For people like me who were very involved in music in school, he became an extra parent and an inspirational mentor. There were times when I, and so many others, seemed to spend more time with Fort at rehearsals than at home. He took my burgeoning love of music and turned it into a life-long passion, leading and teaching with incredible skill and patience. Mr. Fortlander pushed us to grow as musicians, but also as people. There is no way to even begin to thank him or his family for the amount of time and effort they sacrificed to impact the lives of countless students and community members.
Paul Bessette
June 15, 2017
Dan has been a business associate and a good friend for over thirty years. We met at a Music Convention back in Ohio and he has been a customer ever since. More importantly he was a good friend. A solid man. Said what did and did what he said. A good family man and good provider for his family. I am proud to call him my friend. The world is a little less bright without him in it
Madelyn Ferris
June 15, 2017
Dwight and I were in U Singers with Dan. He was a great guy and so easy to be around. I know he will be missed. Peace and grace to your family.
Blessings, Madelyn and Dwight
Jeff Patterson
June 14, 2017
Dan was a great man and mentor. I graduated in 1987 and was his first Drum Major. He is certainly part of the reason I am a Band Director today. Unbelievable loss. So sorry for the family and the JGHS community.
Kim Mack
June 14, 2017
So sorry, for the family,your all in my prayers
Andrea Brems-Eggleston
June 14, 2017
I was the first class of Fort's when he came to the JG School Corp. He always had a smile on his face. He changed that program for the better, he was a dedicated man, coach, mentor to the band students, he will be deeply missed. Thoughts and prayers to the family, God speed Fort.
Susie Scheu
June 14, 2017
Danny and I grew up across the street from each other on Manchester Drive in South Bend. Danny's family moved in when we were in the 4th grade and we became friends instantly and remained so to this day.
I have hundreds of happy memories of Danny but the one that sticks out the most was when he was in about the 6th grade. He made a bunch of homemade band instruments and handed them out to the smaller kids in the neighborhood. He lined them all up and marched them up and down the sidewalk. It was so typical of Dan. Even back then he knew what he wanted to do with his life, which I always found amazing because even at 18 I had no clue. I floundered back then but Dan's friendship was my anchor.
In high school, Dan and his fellow band members fired up the students and athletes every weekend during football and basketball seasons. Under his leadership, the John Adams Marching Band and Pep Band were far superior to the other schools in the area. As a cheerleader, it was an honor to work so closely with the band in creating our routines and we always had so much of fun.
After high school Dan went on to study music and education at Ball State. His one desire was to become a band director where he could inspire students and help them develop their love of music. After college Dan landed his dream job at John Glenn High School. Dan was beloved in that community. Every time I ran into someone from Walkerton I would always ask them, Do you know Mr. Fortlander? Of course everyone did. The parents loved Dan for the way he inspired their children and the students loved him because Mr. Fortlander was the best teacher, friend, counselor, etc.
Dan's light went out way too soon but what comforts me most is Dan spent his entire life doing exactly what he loved. He was a happy man and was loved by so many.
My love and deepest sympathies to Lori and the kids, to Mr. and Mrs. Fortlander and Dan's two brothers.
Love, Susie Smith Scheu
Leslie Nelson
June 14, 2017
Will be Greatly Missed
Rachel Villar
June 13, 2017
I couldn't help crying for you and your family when I heard the news of your loss. I wanted to be able to hug you and bear your grief for you. I cannot even begin to imagine the heartache and pain that you and your family are going through. Amidst trying to wrap your heads around what has happened let yourselves cry knowing that each and every tear is a note of love rising to the heavens for him.
May the fond wonderful memories that you all have of him, his love for all of you, the funny stories that make you laugh, the times he made an impact in your life, and his kind heart that touched you help to comfort you during this during this time to find peace. Please remember although grief is a journey we walk alone know that you are never alone.
With love and great sympathy I pray for you and your family to have the strength to get through this and the courage to move forward.
Sabrina (Rogers) Sheets
June 13, 2017
I started going to John Glen in the fall of '85. I was in the band for my Sophomore year. That is when I met Mr. Fortlander. Then I had him for Music Appreciation in my Senior year. He was one of the best teachers that I ever had. He will be forever missed. Prayers for strength and comfort during this time to his family.
Casey Pawell
June 13, 2017
To the family of Fort,
Words can not express the loss that you must have in your hearts now, but please know that your husband and father was an inspiration to so many and such a true example of a teacher. Rest assured that there are many, many, many that are feeling the loss in their hearts that can not be filled. Your husband/father was like a father to us all, with a true love for children way beyond his job description. He was a man that dedicated his life to showing others the importance of commitment, desire, and love for music and performance that has followed so many of us far beyond our opportunity to be his student. Dan's legacy lives on in so many of us and has inspired so many others to give the gift that he has given. Keeping in mind that this life is a dress rehearsal for the ultimate concert meeting him in heaven. Fort would love for all of us to have a moment of loud rock-n-roll music instead of a moment of silence any day for him!
Stan Neuenschwander
June 13, 2017
I lived on the same floor as Dan at BSU. I remember he was in the marching band, and when they performed before a football games, someone in our group would wait for a real quiet moment and then yell out at the top of their lungs, HEY FORTLANDER! This happened several times until Dan finally told us the director told him to tell his friends to shut up.Of course, being college guys, we only used that as an excuse to continue the practice every time a public opportunity presented itself. Seriously, Dan was one of the nicest guys I ever met. So sorry for your loss. I'm sure a lot of students and fellow workers share your feelings at this time.
Ruth Warren
June 13, 2017
Dan was my student at JAHS. His friendliness and positivity was a breath of fresh air as I ran into him from time to time at band competitions. He will be sorely missed by everyone he touched.
Eva (Rogers) Hopkins
June 13, 2017
Such a loss for the family and the whole John Glenn Community! A kind, wonderful; man!
John Schurz
June 13, 2017
Condolences, thoughts and prayers to the Forlander Family. I greatly appreciated Mr. Fortlander's instruction as a member of the LeMans Military Academy Drum Corps. God bless.
Eva Hopkins
June 13, 2017
Prayers go out to the Fortlander Family, as well as the John Glenn Community. Such a great loss so suddenly. Heaven will be having some beautiful music with Fort!
Lucy Anderson
June 13, 2017
To the Fortlander family, we have only known him for a short time since moving here to the area, he made such an impression on her daughter. God bless you.
Chris Franey
June 12, 2017
To all the Fortlander family; my deepest sympathy on the loss of this wonderful person. My family attended Sunnyside Church with Dan's family, and I was part of the youth music ministry that traveled to many different churches. "Danny" was always the drummer. I remember his hard work, his ready smile, and the constant presence of his mom and dad, who were always so proud of him. So many young lives have benefitted from his wonderful giving spirit. He will live on in each of their hearts--truly a song without end.
Diane. Henry
June 12, 2017
So very sorry to learn of this,Jeff, Todd, and Bruce and Diane are thinking of your family at this time..Many good band memories by the Henry family.
Angie Close
June 12, 2017
I'm so sorry of Mr. Fortlander's sudden death. He's such a great influence on my son and his other students. My son told me that band has always been his favorite class. He'll be greatly missed. Band concerts won't be the same without him and band class will never be the same for my son and the other students.
Joe Pletcher
June 12, 2017
Mr. Fortlander led by example. He treated others with respect, always exuded professionalism, and showed countless students the meaning of hard work balanced by a smile and joy for the moment. These are the lessons I suspect hundreds took with them without even knowing it. He will be missed.
Dorothy Jacobs
June 12, 2017
So sorry to hear of the loss of a great man. He was a big influence on both of my kids. But also he was a good friend to all. He will be greatly missed but always in our hearts.
Dave Poncar
June 12, 2017
Dan was a very well-liked and respected Band Director across the state of Indiana. It's obvious, especially from reading all of the comments posted here and elsewhere, what a great person he was, and how much he meant to everyone whose lives he touched. Very sad that he was taken from us all, much too soon. Condolences to his family, and the entire John Glenn Band, school and community - I hope you can take some comfort in knowing his legacy will continue, and the influence he's had on countless students and families will as well.
jami vandenbossche
June 12, 2017
Mr. Fortlander...you were a great teacher! Our loss, as a community, is immeasurable...I can't imagine what your family is going through. You touched more lives in a positive way, and gave more chances to kids who had few choices. Always a gentleman who expected the best any student could give. You, Sir, changed the lives of children...I can think of nothing more noble. You will be sorely missed. You helped shape Kate into the person she has become, someone we can both be proud of.
Joseph Badger
June 12, 2017
I met Dan at the old Drumville/Guitarland Store in South Bend in 1971. At that time, he was a student at John Adams. He was a very unique individual in many ways...all of them good! in all the years since then, I have never heard anyone utter an unkind word about Dan. He was an absolute gentleman in every respect. In addition to being a very talented drummer, he was, very obviously, a fabulous music teacher/director. In that arena, he was as good as one can be.
Dan will be sorely missed by everyone who ever knew him!
P.S. Dan, I really miss those early days at the music store when we would annoy everyone in the store by playing "press" rolls on the counter!
R.I.P., buddy!
Yvonne Miller-Sell
June 12, 2017
I knew Dan for many years through Blessing Music, and he was always one of my favorites. He always called me his twin because we were the same age and thought a lot alike. His early death deeply saddens me. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in the days to come. May God wrap his loving arms around you and give you peace and strength.
Deborah LaRiviere
June 12, 2017
Lori my heart is with you and your children and all those that knew and loved Dan. It was a privilege to have known him. I will cherish the too few moments shared in conversation and laughter with him. To learn about the man that is your true soul mate and to experience that which makes him so special in all the lives that he touched. My prayers are with you and your loved ones as you grieve and learn how to continue your life journey as Dan would want.
Love your friend
Deborah LaRivere
Pittsburg, CA
Gordon Schwartz
June 12, 2017
To the Fortlander Family: Our prayers are with you. Dan was a wonderful person to be around. His wit and humor was always enjoyable. He is one of the nicest human beings I have ever known. Please remember this is just a passing from one life to the next and you will see him again in the future. He is happy, healthy and safe in God's loving arms.
Melissa Craig Spall
June 12, 2017
I will never forget my band days with Mr. Fortlander, from my first sqeak playing the clarinet to my final performance at graduation. The JGHS family lost a great man!
Lynette Hiner
June 12, 2017
I am so sorry to find out about your lost.Dan was one in a million.May GOD help you though your lost.
sandy (Stapleton) Berger
June 12, 2017
Dan & i attended the same Church & High School. Spend many hours in the "Band Hallway" with friends. I did not have a date for Prom, Dan was gracious enogh to take me. He loved to smile & laugh, saw good in everyone & everything. I know God is enjoying his company! God Bless sandy
Katerina Brown
June 12, 2017
Mr. Fort lander was the only reason why I stuck with band. He and a few other teachers were genuinely saddened when I dropped out of school due to my health and having to raise my youngest brother.I was so excited to as an 8th graders get to tag along with the band when they made it to state. I will never wlak the halls without thinking of him. I was so saddened to see his passing on the band website. My deepest sympathy to the family. He touch so many people and left a HUGE impact.
Janice Reynolds
June 12, 2017
Rest in peace my Dear Friend from Ball State. I will cherish the time and fun we had together both at college and the times at IMEA along with Ed Golightly.
Such a shock.
Prayers for all.
Janice Reynolds
Joyce Lightner
June 12, 2017
I do not have the words to express my sadness for the loss of Mr. Fortlander. He was simply the best band director John Glenn School Corporation has ever had. May God Bless and hold his family close in this time of need.
Susan Johnston-Cecil
June 12, 2017
My brother was at Ball State when he met Dan was in the Morning Star band with Dan. They also shared their faith and love of the Lord together. He was truly one of a kind! I loved his smile, his energy, his infectious laugh, and, his sense of humor. He has touched so may lives in such a positive way! What an incredible mentor to so many families and lives! As badly as we all miss him terribly already and grieve deeply, take time to think about all the great things that he did as a friend, father, son, mentor, Christian, and treasure all that he was! Reminds me to take a little of who he was with me every day to impact my world!
God knew exactly what his plans were for you Dan and you served Him well! I have no doubt He has told you, "Well done my good and faithful servant"! Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the beautiful glory and rewards of Heaven. We all miss you terribly already! I can't wait to see you again and share some laughter and love on the other side someday!
Prayers lifted for the family, friends, co-workers and students. Dan, thank you for your gift of friendship....truly my blessing! Always will be!
Love you!
Rev. Edward Grams
June 12, 2017
Dan, it is far too soon for you to be gone, but I know God has a place for you. Thank you also for the service and friendship at LeMans Academy where you directed the Drum Corps. Love to your wife and family from some old friends.
Chad Ladyga
June 12, 2017
Dan changed my life, his passion was second to none!! He pushed me extremely hard and I am only the man I am today because of him. The stories I could tell and the memories we had would make his cheeks blush! Thank you for never giving up on me! Sorry for all the early grey hairs! I will never forget you my friend! LOVE you man!! RIP
Denise Drake-Nichols
June 12, 2017
Lori & Family,
I am so so sorry! May God comfort you at this difficult time. Dan will live on, in so many students and friends. Keep your Faith....
June 12, 2017
Sending prayers to Lori and family. I am so sorry for your loss.
J. F.
June 12, 2017
Our family as well as many others had three generations impacted by Mr. Fortlander. My Dad was an usher at the church with him. I was in the band when I was young. My older boys was in the band for several years. Even my younger boy said, " He gave me change for a ten at the end of school." :) We will all miss you!!!
June 12, 2017
Will miss you greatly Dan. Remembered all of the good times from the Royal Majestics and other Musical adventures.
Douglas Thompson
Austin Rogers
June 12, 2017
Dan Fortlander was loved by all who knew him. Without his enthusiasm and guidance, many JGHS students would have never known the joy of musical performance.
Words fail to describe his importance to the community. He will be sorely missed.
Tom and Rosie Morgan
June 12, 2017
Lori and kids, we pray that God holds you close as you go through this loss. Dan was simply one of the best teachers we've ever known. He instilled a love of music that still shines in all three of our sons, BJ, David and Michael. He will be missed.
Reta White- Dzierla
June 11, 2017
Prayers for the family and for all the thousands grieving at this time. Such a wonderful man that taught and showed our kids and young adults what PRIDE truly means.Play the drums of heaven
He will be greatly missed..he taught my 3 girls over the years
Rita and Jim Rogers
June 12, 2017
If you are truly fortunate, there will be someone in your life you will owe a debt of gratitude that is impossible to repay. Dan Fortlander is that person for our whole family. A truly gifted, beautiful person who gave and gave and gave of himself. He had a vision to make band cool, and the band room was "the" place to be.He achieved this vision and surpassed even his own expectations. Who would have guessed Drillmasters and black band Tees could be the coolest clothes ever?
Thank you, Lori, Caleb, Shelby and Mikayla for sharing your husband and Dad with our whole community.
God bless you and keep you, Rita and Jim Rogers, Austin '06, Hillary '08, Meredith '12
Tracy Richart Jones
June 11, 2017
My heartfelt condolences goes out to the Fortlander family
karen klopfenstein
June 11, 2017
i am so sorry to hear of this..God bless you lori & children & all of mr fortlanders family & friends.. he was so loved
Deborah Halpin
June 11, 2017
I have no words of comfort right now because unless you've experienced a sudden death it doesn't sink in for awhile. Only had been a part of the JGSC band program for like 7 years but Dan made it feel like a family. He is irreplaceable and was so carasmatic that he touched everyone's heart's in our community. The Lord truly BLESSED us with him to guide, disciplin, and guide our children. His passion as a teacher was a catalyst for His students to want to be educators. And this IS a fact because Sadie expressed this last night and Only hopes that she can be half of the teacher that he was. Dan Fortlander, please RIP and will meet up with you on the other side. Thank You my friend for being a big part of our lives.
Kayla Fillmore
June 11, 2017
Great and passionate man, teacher, and beacon at John Glenn! Peace be with you, God Bless
Virginia Palfi
June 11, 2017
I was so honored to have know Mr. Fortlander. He brought music into out home and made our children love music even more. He was always happy and such a gentleman. My daughter Krista was so greatly influenced by Mr. Fortlander because he worked with her to be such a great drum major. I am so honored to have had him in all of their lives. My heart grieves for your great loss, but know he will never be forgotten because the love of music will always be special in our family.
Jim Baker
June 11, 2017
I always knew Mr. Fortlander as a kind and thoughtful man, dedicated to the young people entrusted to him. His passion and love for music was infused into his students, and has made their lives richer. Our son Joshua thought the world of him and we join him in grieving his passing. Please know that the Baker family is praying for peace and comfort for the Fortlander family during these dark days. We grieve with you.
Liz Szalay
June 11, 2017
Prayers to Mr. Fortlander's family. My son Alec Steepleton benefitted from his strength. Fort always had a smile and he was tough as nails. So sorry, and I wish all of you peace.
Marian Spitzke
June 11, 2017
Heaven needed a new music director, God picked the best!
Brenda FutA
June 11, 2017
Lori and family
So sorry for your loss! Thoughts and prayers to you and your family! He was a great inspiration to the John Glenn community!
Jessica Beam (Luther)
June 11, 2017
Fort was the reason I had so much passion for band. Not only was I under his direction for 4 years in high school, but I even helped out with the band moms and dads during marching season throughout my sister's and brother's high School career. Memories will be cherished forever and I am deeply saddened by your loss. Sending prayers and lots of love.
Cindy Rude
June 11, 2017
Dan will be missed by not only friends and family, but this whole community mourns his passing. He was a wonderful man, supportive, cheerful, loyal!
Vickie Marshall
June 11, 2017
I admired your success in the music education circle. May God's peace surround all who were touched by such a life-changing person for student and colleague alike.
Maggie Erickson
June 11, 2017
Fort touched so many lives. He was a truly remarkable man. Lori and kids I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless
Roger Raymond
June 11, 2017
Very sad day for Karen and I. Dan was in our group Morningstar when we first went on the road in late 1981. Dan was a fun and always seemed to smile even when we had tough times on the highways or a tough crowd. What a joyous time our group of Ball Staters had...very tough time today, but some great memories. Gid bless all of Dan's family.
Pam Miller
June 11, 2017
Lori, Dan was such a big part of our lives for many years and he influenced all three of the kids (Chad, Cory and Heather Miller). Their love of music still goes on today, especially Chad.
Sue Michell
June 11, 2017
Me Fortlander was a teacher to my kids and my grandkids. He was greatly loved and admired. He will live in the hearts of so many kids for years and years to come. I am so sorry for your loss. God bless your family and fill you with peace.
Kathleen Hugyenard
June 11, 2017
Such a great teacher and leader. He will be sadly missed by all. The family and all who care about this awesome soul are in my prayers.
Dan Telfer
June 11, 2017
I had the pleasure of knowing Dan and his parents, Fred and Marcia for many years. Under Fred and Marcia's loving guidance Dan became a loving wonderful adult, and excellent teacher. He will be missed!
William & Janette (Hathaway) Neiswender
June 11, 2017
He was a wonderful addition to John Glenn,and made the band program. I was a student of his first year teaching at Glenn. All of my children took band because of the awesome frienship he kept with all his prior students. I could go into the school on any given day and he would sit and talk and ask how the family was and talk about our days in school. He will be so missed by many,and if he touched as many people outside his family, i can only image how your family will miss him. I hope that you will be able to laugh and share his memories some day and feel at peace with it. I pray that your family heals knowing how admired he was to everyone he met.
BECKY (SNYDER) SCHOELKOPF
June 11, 2017
SO VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS!!!
Michael Prout
June 11, 2017
I was a student of his from 1985-1989. He was a great band director, friend and mentor. He was always a kid at heart at the time and would joke with you right up to that first step on the field or raise of his baton. I never did anything with music after high school but I know those who did and they are truly grateful for his friendship. He was hard to keep up with at times but always had time to look back and offer you a helping hand. Our community will miss him but never forget his legacy... RIP Mr. Fortlander... Condolences and prayers to his family...
Danny Beem
June 11, 2017
Mr. Fortlander was my band director from 1989 to 1996. More than just a teacher, he was involved in his students lives and cared about his students more than any teacher that I ever had. He was an amazing, supportive, energetic, caring, involved teacher. John Glenn will never be the school corporation it was with Daniel Fortlander.
Jamie Kharga
June 11, 2017
What a huge loss for his family and our community! Our deepest condolences, may his family find comfort in his great legacy! His life was full of love for others, and what a wonderful way to be remembered at the end of ones life!
Norm and Jean Ann Beem
June 11, 2017
There are no words to express in such a small space what we feel. This was a wonderful man.
Norm and Jean Ann Beem
June 11, 2017
There are no words to express in such a small space what we feel. This was a wonderful man.
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Memorial Events
for Daniel Fortlander
Funeral services provided by:
Rannells Funeral Home - Koontz Lake Chapel7984 North State Road 23, Walkerton, IN 46574
How to support Daniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Daniel Fortlander's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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