Fortess, Edith Spector – 1925-2012

FORTESS, JEFFRIES, SHERGERT, SPECTOR

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 7/16/2024 at 13:12:02

Edith Fortess, known as "Edie", formerly of Chicago, died on October 7, 2012, at Kavanagh House. She was 87.
Edie was born on June 4, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois to Charles and Bessie (Shergert) Spector. She grew up in Chicago and lived there and Arlington Heights until she moved to Waukee in 2009.
Edie married Sam Fortess on February 16, 1947 in Chicago. They were married for 44 years. It was fondly said that she was a "magnet" for other people who flocked to her to confide in her, listen to her many life experiences and stories and receive her words of concern and consideration for the visitor and family members and, of course, the constant offering of noshes. Edie was an avid crossword puzzle player and enjoyed keeping up with family and friends through e-mail and phone calls.
Edie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sam, and brother, Sherwin "Sookie" Spector, Chicago. Edie is survived by two children, Lorel (Jeff) Jeffries, Urbandale and Larry (Debra) Fortess, Albuquerque, NM; sister-in-law, Rosalyn Spector; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Edie donated her body to Des Moines University for research. A celebration of her life will be held at a later time. The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the staff at Kavanagh House for the kind, considerate and competent care that was provided. Memorial contributions may be made in Edie's memory to Kavanagh House, 900-56th St., Des Moines, IA 50312.
Iles Dunn’s Chapel; www.IlesCares.com.
Published in Des Moines (IA) Register; Thursday, October 11, 2012, page 5B