Josie lived a full, fiery life. She was married to her sweetheart, Pilar Sr for over 50 years until his passing in 2012. She is survived by her older brother, Jose Ortiz Sr.(Josefina Ortiz); and numerous nieces and nephews. Josie was a mother to six children; Pilar Jr (deceased), Brenda, Lisa, Michael Sr., Gina and Jose. Josie also had eleven grandchildren; Aletha, Alicia, Craig, Roberto, Mariana and Garbriella and her two favorite great- grandchildren, Brendon and Jameson.
Josie grew up in Laredo, Texas and when she met her sweetheart, Pilar Sr., they married and began traveling as migrant workers. They followed the crops through the United States and settled in Lansing, Michigan for the last fifty-five years. Josie was full of laughter, kindness and loved her family fiercely. Her family was her greatest treasure, whenever you would see her she would always tell you how proud she was of all her grandkids.
Josie drove a school bus for the Lansing School District for over 25 years. She enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casino, traveling to see family in Texas and her rescue dog Chula (who went with her everywhere). What she loved most was going to local Tejano dances with her husband, Pilar Sr, where she would always have a new sequin dress. She loved to shine anytime she could.
She will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.
The family will receive friends at Gorsline Runciman Lansing Chapel, 900 E. Michigan Ave., Friday from 2 p.m. until Rosary Service at 6 p.m.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 3815 S. Cedar St., Lansing, Saturday at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m.
