Nelson Fortney
Nelson Fortney
Oskaloosa. Nelson “Buck” Fortney, 85, of Oskaloosa died Saturday, August 20, 2011, at Crystal Heights Care Center in Oskaloosa. He was born July 31, 1926, at Oskaloosa, the son of John H. and Bessie Jenkins Fortney. He graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the class of 1944. He served in the United States Army during WWII from 1944 – 1946. Upon his discharge from the Army he returned to Oskaloosa and went to work for Iowa Valve (now Clow Valve) in Oskaloosa, as a machinist. On April 11, 1953 he was united in marriage to Beverly Bloodsworth at Memphis, Missouri. He continued to work for Clow until 1969, when they moved to Kingman, Arizona and Buck went to work for Duval Mining as a machinist. In March of 1973, he began working for Battle Mountain Gold Company in Nevada. He retired from Battle Mountain Gold Company in 1989 and moved back to Oskaloosa. He was a very talented machinist. Early on he was an avid bowler and golfer. He also enjoyed playing softball, and rock hunting. In retirement he enjoyed woodworking, making jewelry, and playing video games. He was a member of the American Legion. Nelson and Beverly also enjoyed attending Fellowship Bible Church in Oskaloosa. He delighted in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
His family includes his wife of over 58 years, Beverly Fortney of Oskaloosa; two sons: Larry Fortney (& his companion Marie) of Florida and Harry (& Raylene) Fortney of Kelley, Iowa; a stepson: Ron (& Patricia) Bloodsworth of Oskaloosa; a step daughter: Cynthia (& Bill) Pinegar of Marysville, Iowa; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; a sister: Martha Mienders of Ottumwa; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson in infancy; two sisters: Neola Fortney and Luella McKinsey; and seven brothers: Harold, Glenn, George, Forrest, Lowell, Afton, and Robert Fortney.
Graveside memorials services and burial for Buck Fortney will be held Tuesday, August 23, 2011, at 2:30 p.m. in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa with Reverend Bryan Latchaw officiating. Graveside Military Rites will be given by members of the Oskaloosa American Legion, V.F.W. and D.A.V. A procession will form at 2:15 p.m. at the Bates Funeral chapel for those wishing to go to the cemetery. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. As was Nelson’s wish, he has been cremated and no visitation is planned. Memorials may be made to Mahaska Hospice.
Source: Bates Funeral Chapel
