Anthony Fortuna

Anthony Fortuna, known to all as Tony, a self-made businessman, proud son of the Pennsylvania coal country, and the beloved patriarch of a sprawling five-generation family, passed away peacefully in Mesick, Michigan, on June 5, 2026, at the age of 87.

Early Life and Heritage:
Tony was born on July 7, 1938, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a humble Pennsylvania coal mining town, Tony's character was forged by the grit and resilience of his community. He was fiercely proud of his roots as the son of a coal miner. He also inherited a fighter's spirit from his father, Joseph, a well-known local boxer nicknamed "Bouncer."

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gertrude Fortuna; his brothers, Joseph and Luke; his sister, Betty; and his son-in-law, Dan Lang. Being the last surviving sibling of his generation, Tony carried the memory and strength of his family forward throughout his entire life.

The Fortuna family eventually relocated to Lansing, Michigan, and later to Saint Joseph, Michigan, planting the seeds for the family's deep Michigan roots.

Service and Success:
As a young man, Tony answered the call to duty and served his country in the United States Navy, where he was stationed aboard the heavy cruiser USS Salem. His time in the Navy instilled in him a lifelong discipline and a treasure trove of stories that he would share for decades to come.

Upon returning to civilian life, Tony channeled his work ethic into the American Dream. In 1972, he stepped out on faith and ambition to purchase and build what would become a highly successful network of four heat-treating enterprises, beginning with Harbor Metal Treating. Through sheer determination and sharp business acumen, he became a highly respected and successful businessman, providing opportunities not just for his family, but for his communities.

A Legacy of Love and Adventure:
At the absolute center of Tony's life was his remarkable 67-year marriage to the love of his life, Frances "Fran" Fortuna, whom he wed in 1959. Their bond was the cornerstone of everything Tony achieved. Frances was never just a supportive spouse; she was a pillar in his life and a key contributor to his monumental success. In the early days of building his heat-treating enterprises, Fran worked right alongside him in the businesses, balancing the grit of entrepreneurship with the demands of a growing family. She was his confidante, his sharpest advisor, and the steady force that kept him grounded through every triumph. Together, they built not just a highly successful business network, but a magnificent family defined by love, laughter, and a bit of his trademark stubbornness.

Tony's legacy lives on through his five children: John (Debra), Joseph (Cheryl), Mark (Catherine), Paul (Lisa), and Caryn (widow).

He was the proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren and was further blessed with 14 great-grandchildren.

Passions and Personality:
Beyond his professional achievements, Tony was a man of distinct passions. He was an avid lover and collector of classic cars, holding a special, lifelong affection for the Avanti. His pristine vehicles earned him many well-deserved car show trophies over the years.

He was also a true outdoorsman, but his absolute sanctuary was the open water. For decades, Tony's annual fishing pilgrimage to Canada was a sacred, legendary tradition, creating a lifetime of unforgettable memories for the close friends, children, and grandchildren he always brought along. To picture Tony at his absolute happiest is to see him on a boat under a wide sky—a cigar in hand, drifting on the current with that timeless, relentless optimism of a true fisherman waiting for a beautiful catch. On those northern waters, surrounded by the people he loved, he was entirely in his element.

Tony was a master storyteller, a trusted advisor who always gave great advice (even when you didn't want to hear it), and the ultimate guide for a good meal, always sharing his favorite restaurant recommendations. Above all, he possessed an incredible, sharp sense of humor that remained entirely intact until the very end.

A Lasting Legacy:
Tony lived a life that was large, honorable, and complete. He leaves behind a legacy etched into the history of the industries he built, the communities he improved, and the generations of family who carry his resilience, wit, and stories forward. He will be deeply missed, but his blueprint for a life well-lived remains with everyone who loved him.

Service Information:
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Tony's remarkable life and journey.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 11 a.m. with visitation held one hour prior at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Manton. Military honors will be provided by the Cadillac Area Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tony's honor to the Veterans Serving Veterans Park, St. Ann Catholic Church, or the Salvation Army.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com.

The family is being served by Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.

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