Thief River Falls – Kenneth Fort, 73, passed away on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at his home in Thief River Falls.Kenneth William Fort was born March 11, 1949 in Thief River Falls, the son of William and Julia (Sordahl) Fort. Ken graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1967.
Immediately after high school Ken enlisted with the United States Army. After basic training he completed Officer Candidate School and became a helicopter pilot with the 101st Airborne Division. Ken flew many rescue missions during his three tours in Vietnam. He then became a flight instructor at Ft. Rucker, Alabama where he met future wife, Jamie McGrath.
In 1973 Ken and Jamie were united in marriage at Ft. Rucker. Following Ken’s honorable discharge, he and Jamie returned to Thief River Falls where they started their family. At that time he began work with UPS. Then in 1981 their son, Shaun was born and in 1983 their daughter, Brandi completed their family. Ken continued his work with UPS until retirement.
During retirement Ken enjoyed target shooting, fishing, and hunting. The most important and joyful part of retirement came when Ken became a grandfather to Ahna and Blake.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
Ken is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jamie of Thief River Falls; children, Shaun Fort of Thief River Falls, and Brandi (Brandon Blaine) Stanley of Grygla; and grandchildren, Ahna and Blake Stanley.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Julia Fort; and his sister, Violet Fort.
A Memorial Service in Ken’s honor will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, with Pastor Thomas Puffe officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Thief River Falls.
Visitation will take place one hour prior to the Memorial Service on Thursday at the funeral home.
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