Ronald E. Fortney, 72, of Dresden, Ohio died Friday afternoon, November 9, 2018 in the comfort of his own home.  His family and loved ones were at his side.

Born August 17, 1946 in Massillon, Ohio, he was a son of the late Dennis and Julia (Weldon) Fortney and was a 1965 graduate of Union Local High School.  He was a member of the Chestnut Street Church of Christ in Coshocton, Ohio and he retired in 2010 from the Oxford Oil Company.  Ron was a collector of, and enjoyed working on, antique engines and tractors and he was a member of the Dresden Old Steam and Gas Club.  Some of his joys in life was fishing, traveling to Amish country and gardening.  His kind and loving spirit could be seen in the gentle way he cared for his beautiful flowers.

Surviving is one brothers, Dennis (Julie) Fortney, Jr. of Stockport, Ohio; five sisters, Jane Fitzpatrick, Brenda (Dale) Caley and Betsy (Jim) Mercer, all of Coshocton, Cindy Smith of Millersburg, Ohio and Darla (Walter) Harding of Zanesville, Ohio.  Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 41 years, Carmen L. (Longaberger) Fortney, whom he married February 14, 1976 and who died April 6, 2017.  She was truly the love of his life.  He was also preceded in death by three brothers, Norman, Floyd and Charles Fortney and a sister, Reta West.

Ron's family wishes to give a very grateful "thanks" to his special friends, Rochelle and Terry Berry and Erin Lacy.  He loved each of you like family.

Calling hours will be 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at the Dresden Chapel of Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 714 Main Street.

Funeral services will be 11:00am Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at the funeral home with Minister Collin Pinkston officiating.  Burial will be in Dresden Cemetery.