Benny J. Ortiz

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Benny J. Ortiz announces his passing at the age of 87 just shy of his 88th birthday.  Benny was unexpectedly called home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.   He is preceded in death by his father Jose Ortiz, mother Leocadia Ortiz, first wife Helen Ortiz, daughter Eva Ortiz and son Charles Ortiz.  His sisters Erlinda Sanchez, Virginia Ortiz, Delia Marquez, Angie Barela, Rosina Medrano, and his brothers Rudy Ortiz, Robert Ortiz.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Mary (Lita) Ortiz.  He is also survived by his children and stepchildren, Benjamin Ortiz (Nancy), John Ortiz (Geneva), Joanne Ortiz (Cindie), Sharlene Valencia (Adrian), Alan Sanchez (Jessica), Vernon Sanchez (Christie) as well as grandchildren, Linda, Lisa, Kimberly, Estevan, Antonio, Kayla (Andrew), Camille (Adam), Sophia, Cedric, and Evan and great-grandchildren, Arturo, Oliver, Kayden, Avery, Khloe and Calie.  In addition, by his brother Ramon Ortiz (Susan), brothers-in-law John and Tony, sisters-in-law Helen and Josie along with many nieces and nephews and other especially close family members.   

After graduating from Santa Fe High School, Benny enlisted in the New Mexico National Guard in 1953.  His dedicated work in the National Guard both in finance and retirement HR, never missing a drill or annual training, for 42 years earned him the rank of Sergeant Major and a Meritorious Service Medal along with a New Mexico Distinguished Service Medal at his retirement in 1995.  

Benny was passionately involved in his church as a Eucharistic minister, assisting with Sunday collection and, with a heart for service, volunteered with the St. Vincent DePaul Society. He never missed watching mass on a daily basis.  He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, camping, hunting and most of all watching and supporting his children and grandchildren play sports. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He had a beautiful soul and was loved by everyone who knew him.  He was a quiet man but when he had something to say it always had an impact on people.  He will be greatly missed.

Services will be held on January 5, 2024, at Cristo Rey Catholic Church in Santa Fe with a rosary at 9:15 a.m., followed by a Mass at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow.  Burial will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.