THE THIN BLUE LINE
Father of Sgt. Ken Fortier Jr.
(SDPD RET)
Father in law of Det. Natalie Fortier
(SDPD RET)
Ken Fortier of San Diego, CA passed away on October 2, 2022, after battling complications from skin cancer.
He is survived by his loving wife and travel companion, Charlotte Fortier, by his daughters, Melinda Fortier-Marin, Torrance, CA, Michelle Glenn, Salt Lake City, UT, and his son Kenneth Fortier Jr., Sarasota Springs, NY. Ken was the proud grandfather of five, Shane Gundlefinger, Jake Fortier, Monica Glenn, Mackenzie Glenn, and Sonja Fortier, and also the great grandfather to Jake’s daughters, Lilianna and Giavanna. He leaves behind his older brother, Art Fortier, Santee, CA.
Ten years ago he was gifted a kidney. He knew he was special when four family members offered to donate their kidney.
Ken was a dedicated police officer and regarded as a leader in law enforcement. He was proud to serve his community. Over his career, his titles included: Patrolman, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Commander, Deputy Chief, Chief, and GEO’s Western Regional Vice President.
To be a better officer he completed a master’s in Public Administration from SDSU. He officially retired as Assistant Chief from the SDPD in 1993 and as Chief of Police, Riverside CA in 1997.
He was a lifelong learner and used his criminal justice knowledge and bilingual skills to improve human rights while working in Latin America for the United States Department. In San Diego, he tutored immigrants striving for their United States citizenship.
He loved to travel and explore new places. His life was an amazing journey that we have been blessed to have shared with him.
No service has been planned at this time.
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