Marvin Fortman, J.D., 88, died May 7, 2019.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, he was a professional musician (clarinet, sax, flute, bass) before moving to Tucson in 1950 and graduating from the University of Arizona with honors while co-owning “Tiny’s Circus Drive-In” with his brother and father. The Army band piccolo soloist in the Korean War, he returned to UA for his law degree and then New York University on a fellowship for a taxation LL.M. After practicing law in New York City and Phoenix, he joined the UA Eller College of Business and Public Administration faculty in the 1960s, practiced in Tucson, and authored “The Legal Aspects of Doing Business in Arizona,” retiring in his 70s. A lifelong Israel supporter, he was active in many Jewish and social action groups. A 32nd degree Mason, Lodge 4, he was a charter member of Sabbar Shrine. He served as BPA Student Council adviser at Eller College for 20+ years, was honored as the BPA Outstanding Teaching Professor, and a leadership award is given in his name.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Soralé (Sorkey); children, Brian (Lisa) of Los Angeles, Anita of Sacramento, California, and Debbie of San Diego; sisters-in-law, Zita Fortman of Northbridge, California, Shirley Goldberg of Tucson, and Lois Bejerano of Phoenix; and three grandchildren.
Services were held at Evergreen Mortuary with Rabbi Robert Eisen of Congregation Anshei Israel officiating, followed by interment in the Anshei Israel section of Evergreen Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to University of Arizona Hillel Foundation or Stand With Us.
