Jose Ortega, beloved husband, Dad, grandfather, friend and father figure, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on August 31 at the age of 77.
Born on July 15 in El Paso, TX, Jose Ortega was a kind, gentle, and fiercely loyal soul with the patience of a saint. His knowledge and love of music, especially Motown, and movies was immense. He was a die-hard Los Angeles Dodgers and Rams fan.
Jose was a proud graduate of Bowie High School, class of 1967 and honorably served in the United States Air Force while being stationed in Southeast Asia during Vietnam. He was a proud lifelong member of the Communication Workers of America, AFL-CIO local 6171.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Estela, his son Ed and his daughter Erika (Jenna). He is survived by bonus daughters Kristina Flores MD, Angelica Flores-Araja (Ronnie), grandchildren Annabella and Ronnie. He is survived by nieces and nephews from the Tapia family, the Flores family, and the Velarde family. Jose is also survived by his uncle Lorenzo Nevarez and many Nevarez cousins in California, Texas, Wisconsin, Florida and Hawaii.
He valued his life-long relationships with Juan (Turtle) Avila, Michael Butts, Cristina Gonzalez, Ray Velarde, The Jimenez Family and the Aragon Family.
He is preceded in death by his mom, Lupe Nevarez and his uncles John, Victor, and Tony Nevarez.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 25, 2026 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm with a rosary at 10:00 am at Funeraria Del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave. El Paso, Texas 79903 with interment to follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave. El Paso, Texas 79906.
Serving as Pallbearers are John Aragon, Michael Butts, Chris Tapia on behalf of the late Mark Tapia, Gerardo Tapia, Louie Tapia and Jose Velarde. Honorary Pallbearer is Juan Avila.
Though he is no longer with us, his love and legacy will continue through the family he cherished and the lives he touched.
Rest peacefully, Dad. You will always be loved, always be remembered, and forever be in our hearts.
If you wish to send flowers you may reach out to Roel's Flowers at (915) 593-6750 or by going to their website https://www.roelflowers.com/
