James Fortino, born July, 8, 1933, in Scammon, KS, to Dominic and Mary Fortino, passed Saturday, January 9, 2021 in Gilroy. He was 87 years of age.

Jim was known as the 'oldest paper boy' around. He worked for the San Jose Mercury News and The San Francisco Chronicle for many years. It was his life as well as his family's.

Everyone referred to Jim as "Vito." He was best known for his amazing culinary skills. He was on the first team of cooks for the very first Garlic Festival in 1979 and for many years after. Jim also volunteered for many of his church's benefits. And there was never a lack of help…If Fortino was the Chef. Everyone wanted to be on "Vito's Crew." His wit and character followed everywhere he went. He was known on a first name basis in all the Gilroy stores. They will surely miss his smiling face and jokes.

Jim also has loads of fun with his many grandchildren. Teaching them how to be 'caped crusaders,' throwing dice perhaps?- especially on their yearly Mt. Madonna camping trips. But, learning wasn't just for the young, he taught his son-in-laws the proper way to 'toss the pasta' when done.

Jim is preceded in death by his brother, Toni Fortino, his parents, Mary and Dominic Fortino and sister, Josephine Deaver.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean Fortino, six children and spouses: Karen Covington, Louie Fortino (Karen), Jennifer Hardenbrook (James), Lizzy Glass (David), Toni Mintz (Ronnie), Sandy Gorman (John).

He is also survived by several grandchildren: Nicole Stillwell, Rebecca Kraut, Luke Fortino, Joel, Lacey and Gage Gorman, John and Michael Glass, Heichan Koyama, Jessica Woosley. And five great-grandchildren: Olivia Fortino, Christopher Rodriguez, Jaxon Woosley, Kaeden and Jaede Glass.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at St. Louise in Jim's final care. Thank you to Kaiser and to Rhonda Young.