It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved husband and father following a fall.  He was cherished by all who knew him and will be deeply missed.

Pete was born on February 24, 1938, in Providence, Rhode Island to Charles and Anna Fortin.  He attended East Providence High School and graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in business and finance.  He enlisted in the Navy, where he became a deep-sea diver and served as a skipper of a PCF "swift" boat in Vietnam until his discharge in 1967.

He began his civilian life in San Francisco, CA, where he met the love of his life, Helen Steele.  They married within six months and embarked on 56 years of fun and adventure together.  Seeking proximity to skiing and outdoor activities, they moved to Spokane in 1970 and settled in Chattaroy, where Jeff and Greg were born and raised.

Pete worked for the City of Spokane in the budget department as a field agent, eventually holding positions in the finance department, including Finance Director.  Later, he was appointed as Deputy City Manager, and Acting City Manager.  After 27 years with the city, he retired in 2000.

Pete was an active member of the National Ski Patrol and the family enjoyed many years at Mt. Spokane.  In the summers, he could be found on local golf courses with Downriver being his favorite.  He continued to stay busy by serving on the boards of the YMCA, Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and Mt. Spokane 2000.

His conversion to Catholicism was a life-changing experience and he joined the Ministry of Care and Knights of Columbus to further his faith. Throughout his life, Pete was known for his quick wit, humor, laugh and good spirit.  Spending time with him was a joy, and he was always considered one of the good guys and is greatly missed.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Paula.  He is survived by his wife, Helen, and sons Jeff (Lucia) and Greg (Carrine).

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas More in Spokane, WA. On Friday, February 7th at 11am.