Maria Elena Ortega

Born on July 1, 1954, in Cuenca, Azuay, Ecuador, Maria Elena—known lovingly as Mama Mia—was the matriarch and pillar of her family, a woman whose strength, wisdom, and love guided and united those around her.

Maria Elena is deeply missed by her husband, Oscar Ortega as well as her children: Ashley (Juan Carlos), Kimberly (Hernan), Michael, and Pamela, who were fortunate to have her unwavering love and support throughout their lives. She was a devoted Abuela to Cristian, Miguel (Natalia), Calogero, Marilyn, Amy, Giovanna, Samantha, and Nathan, and leaves behind a legacy of love for her grandchildren to cherish forever.

As a sister, she is survived by Rene, Jorge, Ruth, Olga, Mariana, and Nidia, each of whom will always carry her memory in their hearts. Maria Elena is now reunited with her late brother Cesar and her beloved parents, Cesar and Maria Cumanda, with whom she shared a bond that transcended time.

She was also a cherished Tia to Henry, Paola, Eduardo, Juan Pablo, Wendy, Ross, Cynthia (Alberto), Bart, Monica, and Santiago, each of whom felt the warmth of her love and the strength of her presence.

Maria Elena’s friendship with Frances was one of the truest and longest-lasting of her life—a testament to her unwavering loyalty and support for those she loved.

Her fur babies, Mickey, Toby, Felix, and Kylo, were her faithful companions, providing comfort and joy to her throughout the years.

In lieu of flowers, Maria Elena requested that donations be made to the Kidney Foundation, a cause she cared deeply about.

Maria Elena's role as the matriarch of her family cannot be overstated. She was the heart and soul that held her loved ones together, always offering guidance, comfort, and love. As our Mama Mia, she lived with a spirit of freedom, grace, and strength that continues to inspire all who knew her. Now, she is at peace, reunited with those she held dear, and will forever be remembered as the pillar of her family.

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.”

— Psalm 28:7

Rest in peace, Maria Elena. Your strength, your love, and your grace will continue to guide us. You will forever be remembered and deeply missed, our Mama Mía.

Visitation will be held at Jerrett Funeral Homes, located at 1141 St Clair Ave West, Toronto, ON, M6E1B1, Canada. The afternoon visitation is scheduled for December 21, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, followed by an evening visitation on the same day from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A morning visitation will take place on December 22, 2025, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

The funeral service will be held at the same venue on December 22, 2025, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.