Maria Ortiz Velez

Maria Ortiz Velez (Mama, Tia Lika, Grandma, Abuelita), 87 years, was a 52-year resident of North Las Vegas. She passed away on March 26, 2020 in the comforts of home by natural causes. She was born May 27, 1932 in Jalisco, Mexico to Delfino Ortiz and Maria Presiado. She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Victor Velez.

Mama was a devoted wife and loving mother.

She is survived by her six sons: Francisco Velez, Humberto Velez, Constantino Velez, Arturo Velez, Alfredo Velez and Julio Velez. She had 20 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Her family brought her great Joy and sense of accomplishment throughout her life.

Victor and Maria migrated to the US in 1968. Once established in the US they paved the way and provided housing for many other families to live here.

Mama was tiny at 4'11 but she was very strong both physically and spiritually.

She provided protection for us before a trip to make sure we were safe. She fought off an attacker while at work one day. He nearly killed her but she survived.

Mama's true love was cooking and being in the kitchen. She took pride in cooking for her family.

Remember her delicious homemade tortillas?

Remember her delicious pancakes? Who could forget those? Nobody could make them like her.

She loved Los Lucha's - Monday night RAW and Friday Night Smackdown.

Maria liked to collect things like jewelry, dolls, scarves, blankets. She would keep them tucked away in hidden spaces in her bedroom. Mama made hundreds of blankets and doilies throughout her life. She put her own special touch on everything she made and did in life.

Mama was known best for her loving open arms to anyone and everyone...a warm cup of coffee, good conversation and awesome stories.

Maria Velez was the heart and soul of OUR family...she was our story teller, our voice of reason, the Matriarch of the family. It has been a true blessing and a treasure to have had her all these years.

We love you Mama...you will be dearly missed.