In Loving Memory of David Ortiz

Dave Ortiz, 64, of Raton, NM, passed away on November 22, 2023, in Albuquerque, NM. He was born on January 26, 1959, in Raton, NM, to the late Eloy and Delia Ortiz. Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his special niece, Heather Salazar.

Dave was known for his kind and generous nature, he had a big heart, and a great sense of humor. He loved making jokes, laughing, and having fun, always seeing the good in everyone. He was easygoing and looked on the bright side of life.

Dave is survived by his partner and best friend, Susie Mutton, and their dog Niko, both of the home in Raton, NM. He is also survived by his daughter, Ashley and her husband Gabe Marquez of Tijeras, NM; his son, Jerrod Ortiz, of Albuquerque, NM; and his grandchildren, Joshua, Olivia, and Brielle Marquez, and Ariyana Vildosola. Dave is survived by his sister, Eloyce and her husband John Salazar of Albuquerque, NM; his three brothers, Anthony Ortiz and his wife Linda, Vince Ortiz of Raton and Steve Ortiz and his wife Corrina, of Rio Rancho, NM. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory.

Dave graduated from Raton High School in 1977. He had fond memories of playing football, baseball, and basketball with his classmates throughout his school years. He had a passion for carpentry and was an extremely talented and highly skilled carpenter. He started working on various building and construction jobs with his brothers while still in high school, and his talent and quick learning abilities were evident from the start. Dave spent his life working on building, remodeling, and repairing many houses and buildings. His skills included pouring concrete, roofing, painting, drywall, molding, cabinet making, plumbing, framing, as well as custom tile and woodwork. After a few years working in the Albuquerque area, Dave moved back to Raton and continued his work there and in surrounding communities.

In his free time, Dave enjoyed exploring new places, spending time outdoors, playing cards, solving problems and puzzles, and playing with his beloved dog, Niko. Dave was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys and could tell you anything about the Cowboys and the players from the beginning of the franchise. His favorite baseball team was the Boston Red Sox. He also enjoyed gambling, liked to visit the casino, buying and playing lottery scratch tickets, or getting in on a football pool.

Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary will be held on Friday, December 29th at St. Joseph’s-St. Patrick’s Church at 11:00 am, recited by Aaron Ortiz.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 AM at St. Joseph’s-St. Patrick’s Church with Father Bill  Woytavich as the Celebrant.

A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Alderette- Pomeroy Funeral Home of Raton NM.

Dave will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His kind heart, sense of humor, and his talent and skill as a carpenter and craftsman will be remembered fondly. May he rest in peace.