After a courageous four-year battle with cancer, Nanci (Dugas) Fortin, 69, passed away peacefully at her home in The Villages, Florida, on August 13, 2025.

Born October 27, 1955, in Bangor, Maine, Nanci grew up in Gorham and graduated from Gorham High School in 1974. She went on to earn her degree from the University of Southern Maine in 1978.

Nanci devoted 37½ years to teaching Mathematics, inspiring and guiding generations of students in both Maine—serving New Gloucester and Portland Public Schools—and Connecticut, where she taught in Windsor Locks, Suffield, Rockville, Hartford, and Windham. She retired in December 2018. Not only will Nanci be remembered for her kindness and patience in the classroom, but also for being a fierce advocate of public educators.

Just as she championed students and teachers, she also forged new paths as a soccer referee. What began in 1977 as a college physical education requirement grew into a groundbreaking 24-year career in soccer officiating. Nanci rose to the rank of National referee, officiating eight national championships—including the NCAA Division I Women's Final—and working women's international matches during the Chiquita Cup playoffs. As a respected clinician and assistant director of instruction for the National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association (NISOA) since 1989, she mentored countless officials. In 2011, she made history as the first female referee inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

Away from her professional life, Nanci was an avid golfer, a lifelong crafter, a loyal fan of her favorite soap operas, and someone who found joy in a good Hallmark movie.

She was predeceased by her parents, Philip and Helen Joan Dugas of Gorham, Maine.

Nanci is survived by her daughter, Kristin Marceau, and granddaughter, Kaitlin Marceau, of Fate, Texas; and her son, David Lapan, of Austin, Texas, and grandchildren Kierstyn, Madison, and Alex. She also leaves behind five beloved siblings: Philip Dugas of Skowhegan, Maine; Greg Dugas and wife Maureen of South Portland, Maine; Mamie Martin and husband Mike of Gorham, Maine; Elaine Maier of Salisbury, North Carolina; and Leanne Medici and husband David of Limington, Maine; as well as several nieces and nephews: Kyle Dugas; Pat Dugas and wife Annie; Jess Bryson; Phil Bryson and wife Emily; Travis Maier; Daniel Medici and wife Samantha; Jonathan Medici; and Michelle Medici.

Nanci was a force of nature—brave, strong, and fearless. Her determination inspired many, and her influence reached far beyond what she could have imagined. Her absence will be deeply and profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

At Nanci's request, there are no services planned, but a celebration of Nanci's life will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 12:00-4:00 PM at 390 Main Street Restaurant, located at 390 Main Street in Gorham, Maine.