David Fortney

David “Dave” Fortney passed away unexpectedly on July 1st in Madison, Wisconsin. Born on June 18, 1962, Dave lived a life shaped by compassion, curiosity, and a deep devotion to the people around him.

He is survived by his daughter Eva; his mother Carol; his sisters Roberta Lasecke, Rebecca Fortney, and Karen Holland; his brothers-in-law Tracy Lasecke and Dave Holland; his nieces Jenna, Serena, Grace, Olivia and Jamie; his nephews Noah and Christian; and all those whose lives were brighter because of him.

Dave received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin and was an avid Badger fan through and through. He went on to earn his MBA from UCLA, where he cheered for the Bruins—but never over the Badgers. Despite professional achievements and worldly travels, Dave’s true aspiration in life was simple yet profound: he was devoted to his daughter Eva, his family, and was a trusted friend.

Dave built a remarkably successful business as a food importer, one that allowed him to explore 54 countries and connect with people from every walk of life. He has many friends around the world. His journey was defined not by distance, but by the relationships he formed. His empathy knew no borders. He listened with intention, gave without hesitation, and consistently put the needs of others before his own.

Dave loved to experience the world and to share it with friends and family. He found joy in windsurfing and that propelled him to take his first job out of college in northern California where he was sure of being able to wind surf after work. Later in life his love of windsurfing led him to Maui, a place close to his heart and where he felt at home. Dave also loved biking and hiking and was often on the trails in Marin County California. It was in these places that he recharged, found peace and shared some of his happiest memories.

To know Dave was to feel safe, understood, and unconditionally supported. He was a steady presence in an unsteady world, and his absence leaves an ache that words cannot fill.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched around the world with love, humility, and grace.

A celebration of life will be held in Madison in August, details to follow.

To honor David the family has set up the David R. Fortney Memorial Fund at Schwab Charitable to provide support to causes Dave felt passionate about.

Mission statement:

The David R. Fortney Memorial Fund is dedicated to honoring his deep love for Maui and the ocean by supporting individuals and communities in Maui, in addition to those impacted by ocean-related injuries. The fund will provide assistance to those recovering from surfing, sailing, or water-related accidents, and supports ocean safety, rehabilitation programs, and coastal medical response initiatives across Hawaii and beyond.

Through this fund, we carry forward his spirit of adventure, compassion, and connection to the sea — helping others navigate their own healing journeys with dignity and support.

Please contact Roberta Lasecke at rlasecke@comcast.net for a link to make your tax-deductible contribution.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com