Lanny Fortman

  Lanny J. Fortman, 66, Grand Forks, ND, died Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at home. Lanny was born July 6, 1949 in Mayville, ND, the son of James and Lucille (Nygaard) Fortman. He was raised and worked on the family farm near Thompson, ND until his graduation from Thompson High School. After High School he attended Wahpeton for a year. In 1969, Lanny enlisted in the U. S. Army and served in Vietnam as a helicopter mechanic. This was a very important part of Lanny’s life of which he frequently spoke. He was very proud of his country and his military service. Lanny returned to Grand Forks to work as a road grader for the Grand Forks County Highway Department for nearly 30 years until his retirement. In addition, Lanny enjoyed working in his yard, camping, traveling and spending time with family. Lanny married Karen Applegren on October 3, 1969. She survives along with their children, Joe (Wendy) Fortman, Grand Forks, Lannette (Charles) Hanway, St. Joseph, MO and Kim (Chris) Johnson, Moses Lake, WA; Grandchildren, Jacob (Molly), Samantha, Sarah Fortman, Ryan, Teresa, Abby Hanway, Trevor, Megan, Mathew and Xander Johnson;  Great Grandson, Jax Fortman; Siblings, Marsha (Henry) Zolondek, Ardoch, ND, Karen Delude, Grand Forks; Sister-in-law, Doris Fortman, Grand Forks; and Mother-in-law, Mary Ann Applegren. Lanny was preceded in death by his parents and by a brother, Gerald Fortman. Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM Monday, March 14, 2016 at Sharon Lutheran Church of Grand Forks. Visitation will be Sunday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a 6:30 PM Prayer Service at Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will continue for the hour before the service in the church. Burial will be in Memorial Park South Cemetery of Grand Forks. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #157, The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3817 and the North Dakota Army National Guard.