Eugene Fortini, Sr., 78, of Duryea, passed away on Monday, December 21, 2020 at the Regional Hospital of Scranton. He was born in Duryea June 22, and was the son of the late Americo and Martha (Jaskulski) Fortini.
Eugene was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was a member of Nativity of Our Lord Parish Church, Duryea and a graduate of Duryea High School. He was dedicated to his work at various North Eastern Eye Centers, where he was currently working and employed for well over 40 years and was well known for his deeply caring nature. He enjoyed his free time playing the slots at the Mohegan Sun and was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan.
Eugene was a wonderful father and embraced his role as grandfather by creating a lifetime of memories for his grandchildren. He evoked the magic of Christmas by dressing up as Santa for many years and brought joy to birthday parties by dressing up as various characters. His grandchildren were his world and occupied the largest space in his heart. Although he will be missed beyond measure, there is great solace in envisioning his grandsons, Aidan and Christopher rushing to meet him upon his arrival to heaven.
In addition to his parents, Gene is preceded in death by his siblings, Leo Fortini, Anna Misorek, and Junior Fortini; his grandsons, Christopher Gentner, who passed away June 26, 2018 and Aidan Wardell, who passed away 10 days ago on December 12, 2020.
Gene is survived by his wife Karen (Czaja) Fortini; his children, Robert of Florida, Eugene and his wife Alice, of Duryea and Carina Fortini, of Pittston; his grandchildren Aliyah Gentner and Alexis and Bianca Fortini; his sister Dolores Fortini Dale and her husband William Dale, of Duryea; his brother Leonard Fortini Sr. of Duryea; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be privately held at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are made by Kiesinger Funeral Services, Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea.