Laurent "Larry" Fortin

Laurent "Larry" Fortin, 87, of Kingston, passed away peacefully at home with his sons Shawn and Dan by his side and surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 31, 2024. He was the beloved husband of the late Joan M. (Stolfo) Fortin. Born and raised in South Kingstown, he was a son of the late Henry A. and Gilberta (Labbe) Fortin and late step mother Alice(Grandpre) Fortin.

Besides his two sons, Shawn Mathews and Dan Kallal, Larry is survived by a granddaughter Josie Kallal, Tracey (Arnold) Campbell and Russell Arnold who he considered his Daughter and son with all of his heart . He also leaves behind his sister, Lorraine (Fortin) Warwick, a brother, Gerard Grandpre, and his niece Jessica (Warwick) Palumbo and nephews Mitchell Warwick, Gerard R Grandpre. He was predeceased by his brother, Norman Fortin and sister, Theresa Boss.

Larry served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957. He was stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, where he received an honorable discharge with the rank of Specialist Third Class. A dedicated and proud member of the Kingston Fire District, his father, Henry Fortin was a founding member. Larry joined the department at the age of 16 and was considered active until the day he passed. He served for 71 years. Larry served in various roles ranging from firefighter to clerk. His commitment to his community extended to the Wakefield Rotary Club, where he was an honorary member from November 1990 to June 2017. His outstanding service earned him the distinguished Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

In 1984, Larry founded the Kingston Balloon Company, where he created cherished memories for countless customers through unforgettable hot air balloon rides. From grabbing treetops and dipping the basket into streams or lakes known as "Splash and Dash" and always celebrating with champagne at the journey's end. Among his many notable flights were taking off from the steps of the State Capitol and landing at the Walpole St. Prison. Larry participated in festivals across New England and Canada, becoming an integral figure in the ballooning community. He was honored as Balloon Meister Emeritus of the South County Balloon Festival for over 30 years.

Larry also organized various music festivals, with the renowned Music at Brennan Farms and the Pig Roasts at Richmond Airport among his most memorable events. He was known for crafting his own smoker and preparing delicious pig roasts for attendees.

Larry loved French Canadian Music. He was quite the expert with the wooden spoons. One of Larry's favorite side gigs was playing the wooden spoons for the morris dancers, Ladies of the Rolling Pin.

Larry will be fondly remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to community, and love of creating lasting memories for those around him. A resourceful and talented man, Larry was known for his ability to fix almost anything—a skill that often came in handy in both his personal and professional life. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11 AM in Christ the King Church, 180 Old North Road, Kingston. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Peace Dale. Calling hours will be Friday, September 13, 2024, from 5 to 8 PM in the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St. Wakefield.