Benjamin Arthur Fortner, 97, also known as Sweet Old Ben, was born on December 12, 1926 at 12:00pm in Sherman, Texas and peacefully went home to the Lord on Saturday, April 6, 2024 while at home with family in Huntersville, NC.
Mr. Fortner served his country as an Army Air Corp veteran and engineer; among his portfolio of work are the Manhattan Project and the Buck Rogers pack for astronauts. He dedicated his life to protecting his country, and faithfully served the Lord, prioritizing his devotion which extended to his deep love for family and friends.
Ben is survived by his wife, Betty Fortner, and his brother, Billy Fortner (Vivian), as well as his four daughters, eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, a large and loving extended family, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his grandson Devin.
He will be missed by many whose lives he touched, and we will remember fondly the love he poured into each of us and the delight with which he approached life.
Services to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Benjamin Arthur Fortner will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the Northlake Assembly of God Church in Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00am followed by a Celebration of Life Service starting at 11:00am. Military Honors rendered by the North Carolina Army National Guard will follow the service. The service will be live streamed at this link Mr. Benjamin Fortner Celebration of Life Livestream for those who cannot attend in person.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ben’s memory may be made to Northlake Assembly of God- Mission and Convey Hope Funds Northlake Assembly of God Donation Link or Via Health Partners- Hospice and Palliative Care Lake Norman Via Health Partners Donation Link. The charitable organization of your choosing would be greatly appreciated.
For people traveling, the Comfort Suites Near Birkdale Village – Huntersville, NC 16905 Caldwell Creek Drive Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 892-9487 is available. To receive a 20% discount on your room, please call the hotel directly to make your reservation. Please let them know you are part of the group discount for Ben Fortner’s Celebration of Life.
Ben,
I knew you well and love you more. Sleep well good friend, sleep well.
My condolences Tess to you and your family.
Extending my deepest sympathies Tess for the loss of your Father.
Loved the week I spent skiing with you and your daughters in 1980. And the tour of the spacecraft factory.