Kenneth began his career working for his uncle at Ortego Plumbing and Heating. He later graduated from Barber College and went on to work at Stickell Barber Shop, then Taylor Barber Shop, which eventually became Ortego Barber Shop. He also worked alongside his father at ABC Plumbing and Heating before founding his own business, Ray’s Home Improvements, in 1970. Kenneth had a passion for woodworking and fishing, hobbies he deeply enjoyed throughout his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Oline Bringol Ortego; twin daughters, Charleen and Charlotte; his parents; and his brothers, Melvin and Roger Ortego.
Kenneth is lovingly remembered by his children, Keith Ortego (Stefani) of Ragley, Connie Duffy (Tim) of Lake Charles, and Kenny Ortego (Julie) of Broussard, LA; his grandchildren, Ben Sanders, Ashley Naquin, Laura Campbell, Blake Ortego, Ashley Wood, Amber Ormanci, Shayna Manuel, Eric Duffy, and Molly and Jack Ortego; his great-grandchildren, Gannon, Austyn, and Mia Manuel, Nora and Hattie Duffy, Rhett and Judson Campbell, Alexis Bowser, Aidan and Adyson Wood, Emma and Maddox Ormanci, Amelia Sanders, and Olivia Sanders; four great-great-grandchildren; and his brother, Jim Ortego.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at J.E. Hixson Funeral Home, with a Rosary beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Peace.
A Scripture Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday in the Chapel of Peace at J.E. Hixson Funeral Home, Lake Charles, officiated by Rev. Paul Jessen. Interment will follow at Consolata Cemetery in Lake Charles.
