The name “Forestier” was widespread in Dieppe, Normandy, France, in the 17th century. The name signifies “inhabitant of the forest” or “forestry worker” and evolved from the latin word “forestarius”. Noel Forestier, accompanied by his wife and son Anthoyne, came to New France before 1664 and it is shortly thereafter that the family name was shortened to Fortier. Noel was a sailor and also worked as a servant to Charles Bazire, a wealthy merchant of Quebec City. Noel died at St. Laurent on the Ile of Orleans, Quebec and was buried on the 30th of March 1683.