Richard L. Fortman was born on February 8, 1915, in Springfield, Illinois, the city in which he was to live virtually all his long life. From humble beginnings, Mr. Fortman rose to become a six-time Illinois State Champion, and twice World Postal Champion. He passed away on November 8, 2008, in the same city, at the age of 93. He was the last of the legendary checkerists and his passing marked the end of an era.