George S. Ortiz, passed away on September 9, 2016 at the Spanish Peaks VA Community Living Center in Walsenburg, CO. He was 90.
He was born in Trinidad, CO, to David and Guadalupe(Madrid) Ortiz on January 23, 1926. He had seven brothers and two sisters.
George married Arlene (Pacheco) Ortiz and from this union they had three children.
He proudly served in the United States Coast Guard during WWII. He retired from Trinidad School District after 47 years of service in education as a teacher, coach and guidance counselor.
During his tenure, he received numerous awards ad was recognized for many contributions and accomplishments in education. He was also a two sport All American when he attended Adam State College.
George was an outstanding and unique individual who positively touched so many lives in so many ways. Aside from being a friend, colleague and mentor, he was a good golfer and a big Bronco fan. He leaves behind a legacy full of memories and great stories that will be treasured for many years.
Mr. Ortiz was preceded in death by his parents, his six brothers and two sisters, his wife, Arlene, son George Ortiz Jr. and grandson Juan Carlos Vallejos.
He leaves behind his children, Georganne (Jack) Vallejos, Jeanine (David ) Esquibel, grandchildren, J.J. Vallejos, Gina (Andrew) Martinez, great grandchildren, Anthony and Brandon Martinez, Courtney Ann (Duffy) Johnson, Jackie Lynn (Billy), Marcos Juan, Jamie Lynn, Jessie Lynn , Diego Juan Vallejos and their mothers Selina and Jessica Vallejos, three great great grandchildren, Violet Hayes, Roan Haize Johnson and Sophia Rebecca Gallegos. He is survived by his brother Ruben, sisters in law, Flora Ortiz, Ruth Ortega, and brother in law David Pacheco. He also leaves behind may nephews, nieces, cousins, former students and many friends.
He will be affectionately remembered as Grandpa, Tiz, Uncle George, The Rock, Senor, White Eagle and Mr. Ortiz.
Everyone is invited to join the family on October 14, 2016 at 11AM at the Mt. Carmel Chapel for a Memorial Celebration to honor his life.
Immediately following the service a reception/luncheon will be hosted at the Mt. Carmel Center. A blessed and cherished time to share memories and stories with the family.
Inurnment will be held at the Trinidad Masonic Cemetery at 2PM with Military Honors conducted by the US Coast Guard.
My condolences to the family. George was such a sweetheart. He would always stop to say hi. R.I.P George
George was such a nice man. My heart and prayers for his loved ones