Kayla Lynn Fortin (KK), age 28, of Gaylord, died at home with family, on Sunday, August 2, 2020.
Kayla was born in Petoskey, MI. on November 7, 1991. Her parents were Mark and Lori Ruszkowski. Kayla graduated from Gaylord High School and was baptized into the Roman Catholic faith by her great-uncle, Fr. Dennis Stillwell.
Kayla loved horses, Disney movies, and especially loved going to Grandpa Jack’s and Grandma Sally’s farm. Her personality was one of a kind. She would brighten everyone’s day and tell each one, “You’re beautiful. You are beautiful”. Then she would hold their hands and tell them, “I’m Kayla Lynn Fortin, and I have two sisters; Jessica and Theresa and two brothers; Jacob and Joey.”
Kayla is survived by her parents Mark and Lori Ruszkowski, biological father Norman Fortin Jr. of Massachusetts; Grandmother, Sally Lauber, of Custer, MI; Grandfather, Phil (Kim) Stillwell, of Houghton Lake; Grandmother, Mary Fortin, of Tennessee; and Betty Ruszkowski of Bay City; Siblings, Jessica (Mark) Pitre of Alberta, Canada; Jacob (Kristen) Dutton of Gaylord; Theresa Dutton of Gaylord; Joey (Molly) Fortin, of Harbor Springs, MI.; Uncles and Aunts, Tom and Cara Lauber, Cherie Jensen (Lauber), Bertha Lauber, Jeff Lauber, Ana and Don Schultz, Tim and Denise Ruszkowski, Reg and Aggie Ruszkowski, Ken and Jeanette Ruszkowski, Tom and Pam Ruszkowski; nieces and nephews; Jada, Gwen, Rihanna, Izzy, Emma, Mila, Lily, Maddy, Asah, Joey, Axel, Kyle; and several cousins.
Kayla was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Jack Lauber Jr., Norman Fortin Sr.; Great grandparents Martin and Bertha Tasreak, and Jack Sr., and Gladys Lauber.
Molly was Kayla’s close companion, so were her other dog’s Bailey and Chance. She was the most beautiful, loving, and compassionate daughter and granddaughter and special aunt to her family.
Kayla was a fighter, and she always fought for the people she loved. Every breath she took was a miracle. Kayla inspired everyone that she met with her courage and strength. Kayla would be having a painful moment, but she always made sure others felt better that she was getting through. She would ease her mother’s anxiety by saying, “It’s okay, Mommy, I’m okay.”
She would also tell everyone that all girls are princesses. She loved collecting ‘Beanie Babies,’ riding horses at the farm and watching her movies. But most of all, she loved being with family and friends. She had a beautiful voice and enjoyed singing with her mother, especially her Disney tunes.
Kayla, you were the best daughter that a Mom and Dad could ever hope for. You took care of us more then we took care of you. You taught us so much. You showed us your courage, strength, compassion, and the inspiration to ‘never give up.’ We are so proud of you. We will miss you and your smiling face. Rest in Peace, Our Daughter, until we see you again.
Funeral services will be Thursday, August 6, 2020, at 12:00 p.m., at Sonshine Barn Wedding and Event Center (Freeman Farms), Gaylord, MI. with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m.
A special ‘Thank You’ to Robin Nowak and Hospice of Michigan, Rachel Smith, and all of Kayla’s caregivers, also to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for sending Kayla to Disney World.
Donations may be made to Mark and Lori Ruszkowski through the Nelson Funeral Home, Inc. P.O. Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
15 comments on “Kayla L. Fortin”
So very sorry to hear of this delightful young ladies passing i had a chance to work with her in 7&8 th grade she was always so happy and smiling… Never a bad time with her
Mark and Lori we are so sad to hear of your daughters’ passing. May she fly high, and watch over her family. Rest in Peace, little one. Prayers for the family through this difficult time.
The Kuchareks
Deepest condolences for your loss. Praying for your family during this difficult time.
Lori I’m so sorry for your loss! Your family is in my thoughts and prayers!
Kayla was an Angel here on earth. My heart breaks for all of her family and friends and yet I know Kayla’s spirit lives on as she was welcomed in to heaven and suffers no more. Praying for comfort for all of you. Much love from our family to yours.
I am so sorry to hear of this, my thoughts and prayers are with you Mark & Lori . I know it is rough if you need anything let me know.
Kayla you will forever be in our hearts, Jada and Gwen love you so much, you always let them know every little girl is a 👑 princess. We will forever remember you singing Disney songs to them and rocking them as little babies, I remember the first time you held Jada, your very first niece and how happy you were to be “Aunt Kayla” your smile was contagious! You were so strong, brave, kind and loving, we will miss you so much!
I loved singing for Kayla, and seeing her smile. She was so special and I could easily see the love in your beautiful family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers! ❤️
I worked with Rachel. She loved Kayla and her family so much. So very sorry to hear of the loss of your precious girl. ❤️
Deepest sympathy to each of you. Hugs.
Our condolences to Kayla’s family. She was a as a rainbow on a rainy day.
Our condolences to Kayla’s family. She was like a rainbow on a rainy day.
We are all so blessed and always will be by Kayla’s Life and her sweet response to the life God gave her. She loved life and she loved her family and there is no doubt that she will also love playing on the shores of heavens Living Water with the many children that we know are there with her. God will continue to raise her there and one day before too long we will see, with her Mom & family, the smile & laughter again, of the sweetest girl, who spirit and life brought a glimpse of heaven to all of us. God Bless you Laurie, Mark, and all the family and comfort you with Kayla’s accepting and cheerful heart until you see her again in the Kingdom called Home.
I am so sorry Mark and Lori. She was an amazing young lady and will be greatly missed. She will always be with you and all she touched in her life. Hugs for you and the family.
I remember when I would check Kayla into the ER. She was such a sweet soul and had such a loving family to support her. The love was so evident and showed how much she will be missed. Prayers for your comfort…