Rodolfo S. Ortiz

Rudy was born on December 19, 1931, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Domingo Ortiz and Candelaria Soto Ortiz. He was preceded in death by his brother, Luis S. Ortiz, and sisters Bertha Alatorre, Gloria Leos, and Delia Ortiz. He is survived and will be deeply missed by his siblings, Mary De Leon, Anita Banda, and Lorenzo S. (Norma) Ortiz, and many nieces and nephews, who admired and adored him.

Rudy attended Sidney Lanier High School, where he excelled academically. During his sophomore year, he took an art class that would later ignite a lifelong passion. He graduated with honors in 1952 as a member of the National Honor Society. Rudy was the eldest son of eight siblings, respectively putting his dreams of higher education on hold to support his parents and family, demonstrating his unwavering love and dedication to them.Because of Rudy's hard work and determination during high school, he was offered an internship as an Aviation Maintenance Technician at Kelly Air Force Base. There, he built a successful 35+ year career, rising to various leadership positions and earning respect for his diligence and expertise in aviation.

Throughout the years, however, Rudy never forgot the feeling he had as a young 16-year-old in that high school art class. The passion for art continued to burn within him. While he excelled professionally, his heart always remained with his first love—art. This passion eventually led him to reconnect with his dream later in life, proving that it is never too late to follow one’s true calling. In 1969, he was accepted into The Hunter School of Art and the San Antonio Art Institute, where he studied for seven years under renowned artist Warren Hunter. Mr. Hunter became a mentor and a lifetime friend who encouraged Rudy to become a professional artist, showcasing his work at esteemed venues such as the River Art Group of San Antonio and La Villita. He was also commissioned by various businesses and professionals for his artwork, further establishing his legacy as a talented and respected artist.

Rudy felt deeply honored when people wanted to purchase his artwork, knowing they saw the beauty he saw in his creations. His true joy, however, came from painting, and he will forever be remembered for his stunning depictions of Texas Bluebonnet landscapes and the Texas Hill Country. His family is blessed to have many of his paintings, which serve as a source of comfort and a reminder of the joy he felt while creating them. These cherished works stand as a testament to his artistic talents and his selfless dedication to his family, especially his parents. His unwavering love and support for them was remarkable.

Uncle Rudy, a life well lived is a life that inspires, and yours, Uncle was a beacon of inspiration for our entire family. Your unwavering dedication to your passion and family, your tireless work ethic and refusal to never give up on your dreams, no matter the challenges is a testament to the power of perseverance. We will carry your example with us, always striving to chase our dreams with the same fervor and determination that defined your life... We love you and will always cherish the memories♥️.

“Through their art, they left behind a part of themselves that will never fade away.”

FUNERAL SERVICETUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 202512:00 P.M.PORTER LORING MORTUARY1101 McCULLOUGH AVE., SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

Interment will follow in San Fernando Cemetery #2.