SOUTHWICK – Wallace R. Cortis, 97, passed away on Friday, May 17th, 2024 at Baystate Medical Center. He was born in Russell to the late Robert C. and Hildred 
M. (Palmer) Cortis and attended Westfield High School. Wallace served his country in the United States Army during WWII from 1944-1947 attaining the rank of Sergeant. He worked as a self-employed painter and paper hanger for many years before retiring in 1984. He owned and operated an antique business with his wife for many years and was active in Brimfield and Farmington Flea Markets. He was a longtime member of Second Congregational Church in Westfield.
Wallace was predeceased by his beloved wife of 72 years, Shirley M. (Hall) Cortis in 2022, his brothers Stanley Cortis, Ralph Cortis, Harold Cortis and Chester Cortis and a sister Lois Wilson.
He is survived by his loving children, Gordon R. Cortis of Crossville, TN, Joyce M. Ripley and her husband Leon of Granville and Elaine M. Cortis and her husband Peter Stassen of Feeding Hills, a sister Pearl Patino of Agawam, three grandchildren, David Ripley and his wife Jessie, Jonathan Ripley, and Matthew Ripley and his wife Maggie and four cherished great-grandchildren, Lilie, Cate, Abbey and Clark.
His funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024 with a Funeral Home Service at 11 a.m. in the Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield followed by burial in Russell Cemetery, Old Westfield Road, Russell. A Visiting Hour will precede the service from 10-11 a.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations in Wallace’s name may be directed to the Second Congregational Church, 487 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA 01085. www.firtionadams.com
