Julian Ortiz Reyes

Julian O. Reyes, 79, passed away peacefully, Saturday April 27, 2019 at his home in Glendale, Arizona. Julian was born May 5, 1939 to Victoria and Jose Reyes in Gallup, New Mexico. He was the youngest of 8 children. He is survived by his sister Bonnie Reyes, whom he conversed with nightly about their favorite program about the life of Jesus.

Julian was a loving and devoted husband to Carmen Valdez Reyes whom he often referred to as his girlfriend for 61 years. As teenagers, he taught her how to drive in exchange for clarinet lessons. They were known for dancing the jitterbug. They enjoyed travelling and their adventures included going to the Bahamas, DisneyWorld, New York, Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska and the Florida Keys. Carmen credits their strong marriage to practicing what they preached when they taught marriage preparation classes.

Julian and Carmen raised 4 children, Elizabeth, Julian (Norma), Santiago, and Rita. He was Tata to 16 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. He challenged his children to excel in their education. He would support his many grandchildren in their various sports and activities by attending and participating with them when he could.

Julian retired from the local 383 union after 30 years. He would often point out architecture around Phoenix and some of the buildings he helped build.

Julian enjoyed watching and supporting the Suns, Diamondbacks and Cardinals. His hobbies included poker nights, where he played cards, dominoes, dice, pool and darts with his family. He would often swim in his backyard pool. He would take joy in camping, fishing and barbecuing. He was an avid hunter along with his sons.

Julian was a strong presence in his community, at Sacred Heart Parish and in the schools attended by their children and grandchildren. He was an active parishioner at two parishes, St. Louis the King and Sacred Heart Parish. He served as a Eucharistic Minister, served as President of the Movimiento Familiar Cristiano, helped feed the needy of the community alongside Sister Mary Luca Junk, and was a participant with his wife in Cursillo. He interpreted for Spanish speaking candidates for citizenship classes monthly and a Crosier Companion of the Holy Cross. He tailor-made costumes for the annual passion play at Sacred Heart Parish and also participated in many of the presentations. He often attended the school Mass where the children appreciated his gentle nature and his kind smile.

Julian’s presence has made a strong impact on not only his children but all of those that came to know and love him. He had a genuine character, quick wit, and radiated goodwill. His legacy will live on with this children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and future generations to come.