ALLEN FORTIN

HINESBURG —It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Allen Fortin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, on Feb. 2. Allen passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Born and raised with a strong sense of community, Allen graduated from Mount Abraham Union High School and Middlebury Vocational School and quickly became a leader, serving as the FFA State President in 1982 and as a National Treasurer. His commitment to service extended beyond his early achievements, as he proudly served in the U.S. Army, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his country.

On Oct. 1st, 1988, Allen married the love of his life, Anne (Breer), with whom he shared a beautiful journey filled with love and companionship. Together, they owned and operated the Fortin Valley House, a testament to their shared dreams and hard work.

Allen’s career was marked by his 29 and a half years of service with the Shelburne Police Department, where he was known for his integrity, kindness, and dedication to protecting his community. After retiring from the police department, he continued to serve by joining the Sheriff’s Office for an additional four years.

Family was at the core of Allen’s life. He is survived by his sons: Patrick Fortin and his fiancée Isabel Sharp, of Hinesburg, Vt.; Stephan and his wife Marcela Fortin of Orlando, Fla.; and Samuel and his wife Hannah Fortin of Monkton, Vt. He was a proud grandfather to his cherished granddaughter, Stela Fortin, who brought immense joy to his life.

Allen is also survived by his siblings, Thomas and his wife Marge Fortin of Hinesburg, Vt.; Nicole and her husband Dave Sherwin of Ormond, Fla.; and Jeffrey Fortin of Monkton, Vt. He is also survived by his in-laws, Maryellen Manville of Tennessee; Brad and his wife Claire Breer of Westminster, Md.; Jodi Breer of Pennsylvania; and Susie Walbridge of Morrisville, Vt. Allen is also survived by his childhood friend, Frank Provost. He leaves behind several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Allen’s interests were as diverse as his experiences. He found joy in family time, mini-golf, and the thrill of lottery tickets. He loved traveling to Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, and Florida, where he embraced life to the fullest. A true people person, Allen never met a stranger and was known for his warm smile and friendly demeanor. He also had a fondness for raising rabbits and worked on local dairy farms during his school years, instilling a strong work ethic that lasted throughout his life.

Family and friends are invited to call at St Jude the Apostle Church Parish, 10759 Route 116, Hinesburg, Vt., on Sunday, Feb. 9, from noon to 2 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St Jude’s Church on Monday, Feb. 10, at 11 a.m.

Interment will be in the spring at a time to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Allen’s memory to the ALS Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. These organizations were close to Allen’s heart, and contributions will help further their important work in research and support for those affected by ALS and childhood illnesses. By donating, you will honor Allen’s legacy of compassion and his desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Allen Fortin will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish the moments shared with him. May he rest in peace, knowing he made a profound impact on the lives of many. ◊