Irja Fortuna Obituary

Irja was my student in aquatic therapy at Meadows for many years up until I had to leave. She was always the first one at the pool in the morning waiting for my arrival and I was so pleased to see her gentle smiley face. I have missed her and others over the past few years now and will always remember her birthday in August too. She and others at Meadows were a great celebration of life and memories--for many years they came on the bus to my house for birthday celebrations and fun in August. She shared with me herself and her love of life--she will live in my memories and I thank her again.

Just received your letter today and was so saddened to hear about your mother's passing. I worked with Irja for many years at CVS and she was just the sweetest and kindest person. She always spoke about you girls and later about son-in-laws and grandchildren. She was just a delight and I definitely will miss her. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Margie Copen

Mrs. Fortuna was my high school teacher and then good friend. We stayed in touch throughout the years, as she came to know my husband and daughter and I attended her 50th wedding anniversary as well as visiting w/ her in her new home in Glyn Elyn. She was an outstanding teacher, mentor and friend. I so regret not hearing of her passing until today and missing her home going. She was a woman worthy of celebrating and my heart does just that--celebrates her. She taught the subject matter, but most importantly--if it is possible--common sense and life lessons. I will always remember her as an important person in my life who contributed to my success. I followed in her footsteps and also taught Business Education in the Chicago Public Schools. My heartfelt regards to her family that she loved so much and spoke of so often with so much love. Heaven has welcomed a wonderful addition. Love you, Ms. Fortuna! Georgia F. Jordan - former student, Chicago Vocational-Class of 1971

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember some greats times with your mom.

Dear Joanne and family,
From reading the previous notes it is clear that you are following in your mother's footsteps and that you have the same remarkable traits that she was known for...cheerfulness, generosity, encouragement to others and many more. Hopefully your warm memories will comfort you in the days and weeks ahead. Your mom, you and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Sue Jones

Our Thoughts and prayers are with you, Today.
A.A.U.W. Calument Branch

I will remember fondly all of the wonderful times Irja, her family and ours shared. She was a kind and loving woman who dearly loved her family and friends and I feel so fortunate to have known her. I send dearest love to all of her family as you mourn her loss.

Dear Joanne and family,
May the joy and peace of all of the wonderful family memories your family has of your dear Irja, comfort and sustain you in this time of sadness. Every time I had the opportunity to visit with Irja, her beautiful spirit, laughter, wisdom, humor and grace were gifts she shared so freely and I will cherish those memories! My love to you all! Barb

I was so sorry to hear of Irja's passing. She was a true lady in every sense of the word. I will never forget her belief in me as she encouraged me to become, like her, a teacher of business. She was one of the finest teachers I ever had. When I graduated from college as a business teacher, I returned to Chicago Vocational where she became a colleague and a friend. I was just thinking about writing a note to her about my dear mom's passing. I enjoyed getting her Christmas cards and reading stories about her family. She loved you all so much. Irja enriched so many lives. She led me to achieve my dreams and she will always hold a special place in my heart. God bless you all as your grieve for such a wonderful woman. Take solace in that she was able to be with you for so long. We are all better people because Irja has touched our lives.

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

I'm sorry for your loss , continue to pray and ask god for strength during this time of sorrow.

Dear Joanne and family,
Your colleagues and friends share your loss as you deal with the loss of a beautiful life and cherished role model. It appears that you resemble your mom in many ways, Joanne, and what a compliment to you both.
Mary Hollowell (Wichita, Ks)

May God comfort you all as you mourn the passing of this delightful lady, who was beloved by those who were blessed to have known her.

Dear Joanne and Bruce, Aimee, Mark, Allison, and James, we are so sorry for your loss. Please know we are thinking of you all this weekend. God bless.

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.

Sending you all love and peace during this time of transition. I feel fortunate to have been close to the legacy that Irja created in my Aunt Joanne and Pafume cousins for many years. Although I only saw Irja occasionally she was always a bright, smiling, generous figure. You are all in our thoughts.