Harlan "Wes" Fortney

Harlan Wes Fortney, 80, passed away peacefully Sunday, January 31 at his residence in El Paso, Texas. Wes was a lifelong, avid outdoorsman who took every opportunity he had to go hunting or fishing. He also had an interest in prospecting for gold, where he even found time to sample soil during hunts. He had a long career and retired as an educator, from teaching government, economics and history, to administrative positions as Principal, Superintendent, and even spent time as Dean of Dull Knife Memorial College in Montana. He also was involved in real estate and construction in Montana and Wyoming; however, his fondest memories were of the time he spent as an outfitter in the region. Wes is survived by his wife Karen, of El Paso, sister Nettie Mae Goad of Ridgely, Maryland, brother Allan Fortney and wife Lucinda of Camden, Delaware, son Dale Fortney, stepdaughter Jessica Banville and husband Rick of Brooksville, FL, stepdaughter Rebecca Godinez and husband Tony of El Paso, TX, stepson Hayden Parker and wife Susan of Hobbs, NM. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews, primarily in the Chesapeake Bay area. He is preceded in death by his mother Esther Crisp. Per his request, no funeral services will be held; his ashes will be spread in his favorite places. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gideons International or Open Doors USA.