Hero to many El Pasoan's, has been called home. Locksmith and super family man would often rescue us from our silly mistakes of locking ourselves out of our own vehicle or homes. Locksmithing was his last great passion before the journey took a turn and health matters could not be ignored. He died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
He was born in Kennewick WA but grew up in El Paso from age 1. He graduated from Hanks High School 2001. Then soon after started his journey in life living it to the fullest. How many can say they got to work on fast cars and drive them too? Few, I am sure. He also worked at Lowes where he built many lasting friendships.
Then came the grown up part of life – he met his wife Crystal playing an online poker tournament. What?! I know, so odd, but it worked. Soon after they were married in 2010, they started their family adventures, 3 kids later – Pete, Olivia, & Hunter. He always had them doing the great outdoorsy things like fishing, off roading, winter cabin lodging, and hiking. He enjoyed all of that!
Hunting, whiskey, and the black beauty were his exclusively. That is whiskey became a hobby, trying all the fine whiskeys (and sometimes not so fine). It was quite a mission, because as it turns out there are many whiskeys out there. His Land Rover, his baby! He was always working on improving something or other on his off road vehicle. He wanted the best lifts, lights, shocks, brakes (very important)… etc. He used to tell me he wanted me to learn to do the things, but I think he needed me for my smaller (than his) hands. He was good at many things but this he loved. Hunting was fun for him, he could go out for hours just enjoy the solitude and quiet. He knew where all the spots where, and often took his family on the off seasons to enjoy the majestic animals he often dreamed of one day getting “the big one.” And of course when he went hunting with friends, he was quite lucky most of the times.
He knew a lot about a lot of things. He could hold a true conversation with anyone. He could also drive you mad by trying to prove his point. He was funny, and not just dad joke funny, but he could make you roll over and literally laugh on the floor funny. He lived a good purposeful life, was always there to lend a hand, and love on those he cared for.
Pete Ortega Jr., age 39 passed away on Monday, August 8, 2022. Pete was born January 7, 1983 in Kennewick, Washington to Cecilia Ortega (Nelly Perez) and Pedro Ortega.
Pete is survived by his wife, Cyrstal Perales; his son Pete Ortega III; his daughter Olivia Tani Ortega; and his son Hunter Luke Ortega; his mother Cecilia Ortega (Nelly Perez) and his father Pedro Ortega; his sister Darlene Ortega and his brother Tony Ortega (Patricia).
He is also survived by his niece and nephew Victoria and Anthony,grandparents Pedro Madrid and Natividad Ortega Marquez. He will also be missed by his loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends.
A memorial visitation for Pete will be held Friday, August 19, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, Texas 79915, followed by a memorial service at 7:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestfuneralhomeeast.com for the Ortega family.
