Benjamin “Ben” Ortega, 78, of Kansas City, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Born on September 13, 1945, in Kansas City, Kansas to Jesus M. and Guillermina Ortega (deceased). Ben’s life was a testament to resilience, hard work and his love for family. He married his only love, Carolyn Garcia Ortega, celebrating 60 beautiful years together, a bond that would last a lifetime. Ben and Carolyn welcomed two boys sharing an inseparable bond as brothers. Ben was a loving father to his two sons, Benjamin R. Ortega, Jr. (deceased) and Phillip J. Ortega, (deceased). JACK OF ALL TRADES MASTER OF NONE, Ben was a craftsman, he found joy working on mechanical, plumbing and electrical projects. Ben’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the proud owner of two restaurants, “Ortega’s Tacos” Smithville, “Ortega’s Tacos,” Platte City. In 1999 he retired from General Motors. Ben was a welcoming host of countless family gatherings, sharing his passions for baking, fishing and gardening. Ben’s love for cars was immeasurable he owned 1930 Model A, 1932 Coup Ford, and lastly 1963 Impala, that he built from scratch. Ben was a man of many talents. Ben and Carolyn traveled many times in the early years, the highlight “Rio de Janeiro”. Ben Loved, Loved the Chiefs. Deceased also, four loving sisters, Jessie, Socorro, Carmen and Ramona. Benjamin Ortega is survived by his loving wife Carolyn (Garcia) Ortega, one sister Rebecca Ortega Robles from Chicago, grandchildren Phillip Ortega Jr., Sabrina Ortega O'Dell, Victoria Ortega, and three great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law he considered as sisters, Maria Elena Magana, Christina Florez, Mary Ann Trujillo Adams, his little brother Michael A Garcia. Cousins, Gutierrez Family, nieces & nephews Rodriguez family and many nieces, nephews that loved him dearly and last close friends. His legacy as a great man will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his only love Carolyn. A memorial service to celebrate the life of Benjamin Ortega will be held on 10/27/2023 at Holy Family Church, 919 NE 96th St., KCMO. Visitation at 10:00, Mass to follow at 11:00. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery. Luncheon to follow at Holy Family Church. The family welcomes flowers or contributions to a favorite charity.
