Louis J. Fornara

Louis John Fornara, 81, a long-time Prescott resident, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2015, surrounded by family. Louie was born in Cottonwood, Arizona, in 1933 to Battista and Florida Fornara and moved to Prescott in 1940 at the age of seven where he was raised at “the big house” as locals called it , not only because of its size but because he was brought up with his Italian parents, his grandmother, Nonna Gilardi, brothers, Charlie and George Fornara, aunts and uncles, Connie and Nita Savoini and Elvezia Fornara, as well as cousins, Joe, Jim and Art Savoini and Ann and Robert Fornara. As a young man, he delivered milk for his family’s dairy business and also worked at the family owned Hassayampa Market, which was one of the few grocery stores in Prescott. Louie graduated from Prescott High School in 1950 and attended ASU for two years where he played basketball. He enlisted in the Army during the Korean conflict and returned to Prescott in January of 1955. He then married his high school sweetheart, Ninta Richardson, and raised their three sons, Marc, Vince and Gino. He was a founder, partner, and manager, of the JCJ Ranch with family members Charlie Fornara, Joe Savoini and John Olsen. In addition to ranching, he developed property in and around Prescott, but he never lost his love for cattle and the ranch life. He was instrumental in developing his brother, George’s ranch in Kirkland and loved spending time there during round-ups, branding and cattle sales. He was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church and a member of Yavapai County Mounted Sheriff’s Posse. Louie’s passion in life was the love for his family. His sense of humor could bring laughter to any situation. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his boys. Survivors include the love of his life of almost 60 years, Ninta, and sons Marc (Jeannie), Vince (Lisa) and Gino Fornara. He also leaves behind his seven grandchildren Amber (Bill), Ryan (Ashley), Sarafina, Vinny, Jessi, Ramsey and Hunter, along with his great-grandchildren Marcus, Aurelia, and Haylee. He is also survived by his brother, George (Margaret), of Kirkland. Ironically, he lost his brother Charlie only 26 days prior to his passing on December 15, 2014. Louie was raised with his five cousins Joe (deceased), Jim and Art Savoini, Ann Fornara Olsen (deceased), and Robert Fornara (deceased). A special thank to Dr. Missey MD and Dr. Hojat Askari MD, who cared for Louie in his final hours. We will forever be grateful. “Ride hard – run fast – walk tall and fly with the angels Papa.”