Jeanne Fortier, 88 years of age, passed away on February 16, 2010 at the Androscoggin Valley Hospital. Mrs. Fortier is predeceased by her loving husband, Lucien, and her first-born son, Jean-Luc.
Jeanne was born in France where she met Lucien during WWII. She was thrilled to have met a French-speaking soldier. She adored Lucien whom she said rescued her from the hardships typically found in war-torn Europe. Lucien made arrangements to bring his war bride to America, where Jeanne entered the United States at Ellis Island in New York City. The young couple then settled in Berlin, NH where they built their own house and raised 4 children.
Growing up in France, Jeanne entered the workforce at al early age working as a seamstress and later apprenticing in photo retouching. She continued that skill in Berlin while working at Mt. Forist Studio.
Jeanne’s greatest joy, however, came from doting over her loving husband, children and grandchildren. She also was devoted to her church and loved to help her friends and those in need. She served the Lord as a Eucharistic minister at St. Joseph Parish and later at Good Shepherd Parish. Her faith traveled with her as she visited Lourdes, the Vatican, the Holy Land, and Medjugorje.
Besides being an excellent seamstress, Jeanne also enjoyed knitting, crocheting and playing Bingo with her many friends. Her moments of solitude and reflection were expressed through her organ playing and writings of her memoirs.
Jeanne is survived by her cherished family, her only daughter, Marianne and husband, Roland Aube of Berlin; 2 sons Joel and wife Diane of Gorham, NH; Alain and wife Louise of Midlothian, VA; 8 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; her sister Marie Therese of France; nieces and nephews.
A Catholic Mass celebrating her life will be held at a later date. Burial services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Androscoggin Valley Hospital Care Management and the fourth floor nurses. The Bryant Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.