Daniel Fortner

Daniel K. Fortner, also known as “Stretch”, “Danny” and “Big Dan”, of Newport, Indiana passed away Thursday April 3rd.

Dan was born April 9, 1949, in Clinton IN. to Norma “Annabelle” Robertson and Donald “Jack” Fortner.

Dan married M. Ann Kimball in 1971 and later married Peggy Griffin on November 7, 1986, in Newport IN.

Survivors include two daughters: Sheila (Theo) Keller of Newport Indiana and Jill Fortner of Fishers, Indiana; one step-daughter: Jackie Cronk (Glenn Wirth) of Newport, Indiana; Six grandchildren: Andrea (Kyle) Carpenter, Connor Fortner, Audrey Fortner, Glenn Cronk (Cheyenne Staley), Willie (Allison) Maxwell, Rebecca (Steven) Walker; Ten great grandchildren: Clayton Daniel, Lenny, Gabriel, Grant, Charlotte, Gunner, Finley, Noah, Brayden and Lillian; Two brothers: Jim Fortner (Jane Burke) of Madison, WI; Glenn Robertson of Newport, IN; Two step-siblings: Steve (Brenda) Robertson of Cayuga, IN; Cindy Sowers of Georgetown, IL; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Dan was proceeded in death by his wife: Peggy Fortner; Mother: Annabelle Robertson; Father: Jack Fortner; Step-father: Bill Robertson; Brother: Mark Fortner; two step-brothers: Paul Robertson and Don Robertson; Grandchildren: Daniel Kaluza, Brittany Maxwell and Grace Marie Cronk.

After graduating in 1967 from North Vermillion High School, he began his career at PSI (now known as Duke Energy) where he climbed the ladder to Maintenance Supervisor and eventually retired. He held so many special memories from his time at “The Power House” and loved to share those stories with everyone he knew.

Dan was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed metal detecting, arrow head hunting, fishing, biking, gardening, woodworking/carving, mushroom hunting and cooking. But his biggest passion of all was being a grandpa. He spent most of his time with his grandkids; tickling, teasing, giggling, playing and always teaching. Ending every visit with an “I love you” and a poke in the ribs.

Big Dan could only be described as larger than life; a true pillar of the community that he was so proud to be a part of. Dan was a friend to all, and a stranger to none. He made an impression everywhere he went and made everyone feel loved and welcomed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Newport Lion’s Club on Saturday May 3rd, 2025, from 11am-3pm est. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Deverter Chapel has arranged the cremation for the family. Burial will be graveside at Thomas Cemetery. Time and date TBD. Please join Dan’s family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com