Eric "Eke" Bonner Fortney

He was born on January 11, 1948 to the late Dr. Elihu “Hank” Fortney and Hannah Bonner Fortney.

Eric is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Deborah Lord Fortney, daughters Erika South (Chris) and Jessica Fortney (Matt Najewicz), granddaughter Zavi Najewicz, brother Dr. Clark Fortney (Barbara) and sister Kathryn “Kit” Hess (Greg) and several beautiful nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a very special aunt, Kathryn Caton and uncle, Dutch Caton.

Eric served in the United States Army from 1966-1969 and was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany.

Eric was retired from the United States Postal Service after 39 years as a dedicated civil servant, a postal legend some would say. He was an avid and loyal fan of the Minnesota Twins, West Virginia Mountaineers and the Washington Commanders (Redskins). His love of sports started during his youth, well-known as a talented Little League baseball pitcher. Seeing Rod Carew inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame was one of the highlights of his life. Eric also had the opportunity to meet Jerry West, another one of his lifelong sports idols.

Eric loved trivia nights with friends and family, was a brilliant Jeopardy player and crossword puzzle whiz. On the weekends, Eric could be found tending to his yard and then relaxing with some good German beers. He had the most incredible experience meeting Grace Slick, lead singer of Jefferson Airplane, at one of her exclusive art shows where he obtained a signature painting of the White Rabbit.

In 2011, Eric fulfilled a lifelong dream of returning to Germany, where he and his wife toured Bavaria and then fours years later, traveled to Paris, Luxembourg and Belgium. Eric also enjoyed yearly family beach trips to Garden City, SC.