Clara V. Ortega, age 72, passed away peacefully at her home in Raton, New Mexico, on August 8, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born December 12, 1950, in Raton, New Mexico, to Levi and Isabel Medina, their eldest child. She graduated from Raton High School in 1969 and married the love of her life, Dan Ortega on September 18, 1971.
Clara was a devout wife, mother, grandmother, and home health provider. She was an active member of St. Patrick – St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, a volunteer for several ministries within the church, including St. Vincent De Paul and the funeral ministry.
Clara was preceded in death by her parents Levi and Isabel Medina; husband Dan Ortega; 2 brothers Levi Media Jr. and Larry Medina; in-laws Mabel and Fred Nolan; brother-in-law Robert Ortega; sister-in-law Nena Ortega; and niece Nicole Mares.
Clara is survived by her two daughters Victoria Ortega and partner Martín Contreras of Raton, New Mexico, Danielle Webster and husband Brian of New Baltimore, Michigan; granddaughter Marissa Bernal; and grandson Daniel Webster; three sisters Carol Salazar and spouse Ernest, Cathy Chiaramonte and spouse Vincent, Carmen Ortiz and spouse David; two brothers Michael Medina and spouse Jackie, Johnny Medina; and sister-in-law Jane Medina, all of Raton; brothers-in-law Billy Ortega of El Paso, Texas, James Ortega and spouse Marietta of North Carolina, Sammy Ortega, Ronnie Ortega, Frank Mares, Anthony Mares and spouse Clara, all of Raton. Clara is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, godchildren, aunts, uncles, cousins and many, many friends. Clara’s kindhearted and loving spirit will be missed by all.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to her hospice nurse Robin Pilley and caregiver Carol Vigil. Pallbearers will be Michael Medina, Johnny Medina, Brian Webster, Martín Contreras, Ronnie Ortega, and Jimmy Mascarenas.
Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary will be Friday, August 18, 2023, at 11:00 am at St. Patrick’s/St. Joseph Catholic Church, recited by Johnny Medina, followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 11:30 am at St. Patrick’s/ St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, with Father Bill Woytavich as the Celebrant. Interment will be at Mt. Calvery Cemetery immediately following the Mass, reception to follow at the Parish Hall.
Funeral arrangements for Clara V. Ortega are under the direction of the Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.
