National Football Foundation

The husband and wife team of Joe and Catherine Fortunato are the key ingredients to the success of the Miss-Lou Chapter.
 
As past president and longtime leader of the Miss-Lou Chapter, Joe, along with the assistance of Catherine, has allowed the chapter to play a significant part in the game of football's advancement throughout the Natchez, Mississippi area. The highly successful Joe Fortunato Celebrity Golf Classic annually raises money for the chapter's scholarship fund. The two-day event, which draws former coaches and players, allows the chapter to provide scholarship money to many of the area's top high school scholar-athletes.
 
A native of Mingo Junction, Ohio, Joe took his football talents south were he was a standout as a linebacker and fullback at Mississippi State. An All-Southeastern Conference and All-America selection at linebacker for the Bulldogs, Joe participated in both the Senior Bowl and the East-West Shrine game. Following graduation in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education, Joe played linebacker for the Chicago Bears from 1955-1968. He made All-Pro in 1963 and 1965 and was selected to play in the Pro Bowl on seven occasions. He started every game except one during his career with the Bears.
 
Beginning his business career in 1969, Joe is currently the co-owner of the Big Joe Oil Company, the Big Joe Operating Company and the Big Joe Real Estate Company.
 
Catherine currently serves as the office manager for the Big Joe Oil Company, where she has worked since 1986. She is also a sales agent for Century 21 Real Estate. Involved in the community, Catherine has previously served as secretary to the Women's Service League and secretary of the Huntington School Board of Directors. Catherine has played a key role in the chapter and annually assists with the golf tournament and scholarship banquet. A member of the Natchez Ladies Tennis League, Catherine enjoys gardening and is a member of the Pilgrimage Garden Club of Natchez.
 
Joe and Catherine were married September 21, 2002 and have five grown children between them.