Arthur Odilon Fortin

LEWISTON – Arthur Odilon Fortin, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished member of the Lewiston community, passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2026, surrounded by family and those he loved. He was 91. Arthur was known for his quiet humor, deep faith, strong work ethic, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Arthur was born in Lewiston on August 6, 1934, the youngest child of Arthur and Yvonne Fortin. Born prematurely, he was kept warm by the kitchen stove—a family story lovingly retold over the years. His older sister Georgette, delighted to finally have the “doll” she had always wanted, nicknamed him “Tootsie,” a name that remained with him throughout his life.

Arthur attended Lewiston Catholic schools and graduated from St. Dominic’s Regional High School in 1951. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably. Upon returning home, he asked Jacqueline Dozois to marry him, beginning a lifelong partnership of 67 years marked by love, faith, and family.

Arthur and Jackie raised their three sons and daughter in their home at 41 Beckett Street, which became the heart of countless family gatherings over the years—birthdays, graduations, bridal and baby showers, and, most memorably, regular Sunday lunches.

Arthur matched his deep love for family with a powerful work ethic. His first job as a high school student – a bundle boy at Bonneau’s Market – eventually led to his ownership of the neighborhood grocery story. After 36 years, he embraced a new challenge at Lewiston Brass Works. Even in retirement, Arthur continued to serve his community as a tax consultant with H&R Block, preparing returns for many families until just two weeks before his passing.

Arthur genuinely enjoyed being around people. He was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus and looked forward to monthly breakfasts with fellow members. A devout Catholic, he served as a Greeter and Eucharistic Minister at Holy Cross Church, where many found comfort in his calm, gentle presence.

Arthur was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Dominic and Julien Fortin; his sisters, Margaret Charest and Sister Mary Julien Fortin; and his grandson, Justin Clements.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jackie; his sister, Georgette Morin; and his children and their families, Marc Fortin and his wife Sarah, their son Zach and his wife Maddi, and their daughter Mikayla; Judy Clements and her husband Kevin, and their son Chris Clements, his wife Nicole, and their son Noah; James Fortin and his wife Julie, and their children Josh and Amelia; and Gary Fortin and his husband Mike Smith.

Arthur’s life was defined by faith, family, and quiet generosity. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Arthur’s life will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 607 Sabattus Street, Lewiston. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, Feb. 2, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The Fortin and Pinette Group, located at 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway in Lewiston, 784-4023.

To share memories and condolences with the Fortin Family, please visit http://www.fortinpinettegrouplewiston.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to;

the Sisters of the

Blessed Sacrament

101 Silver St.

Waterville, ME 04901