Craig "Big Guy" Fortney

Craig Allen "Big Guy" Fortney, age 61 years, 10 months, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 18, 2023 with loved ones at his side. He was born on April 9, 1961 in Riceville, IA, to Dean and Angelea (Rhea) Fortney. He grew up with his siblings Judy (Mel) Eastland of Riceville, IA, Bruce (Carla) Fortney, Lime Springs, IA, Phillys (Bob) Reuter of Waterloo, IA, Nancy (Pat) Ginder of Osage, IA, Cathy (Dave) Acevedo of Rochester, MN. Craig grew up near Chester, IA, and enjoyed riding his bikes on the banks of the river behind his childhood home. He would often visit the antique store near home, too. He attended Crestwood High in Cresco, IA, and graduated in 1979. Craig could be seen riding around in the 'concert machine' (his car) to get to the many bonfires and live bands during his school years. He had many stories about all of the stuff he did; some good, some bad. He worked for Timm's Auto Salvage as a yardman in St. Charles for 19 years; he was also an overnight stockperson at Walmart South for three years as well as a shipper for The Leather Guy for 5 years.

 

The "Big Guy" was an avid collector of Tonkas and enjoyed trout fishing, grilling, being around his family and friends as well as his projects of making grills out of old water heaters. He enjoyed helping his friends and family whenever they needed his help "Just ask and he was there" they'd say; he also never let anyone use anything without putting it back in its proper place. His favorite quote(s) were: "Don't make it look stupid." And: "Body in motion stays in motion." He was married to Joni (Pelowski) and they later divorced; their union was blessed with two children, Thomas and Rachael.

 

He will be missed by family and friends including: his wife, Renee Fortney (formerly Bonow); children Thomas (Morgan Hagen) Fortney of Austin, MN, Rachael (Dustin) Wheeler of Owatonna, MN; grandchildren, Aiden Bork and Zayden Wheeler.

 

A Celebration of Craig's Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, February 24 at the Hoff Funeral Home of St. Charles. There will be a visitation held for one hour prior to the Celebration from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Interment will be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Dover.