Ortiz, Doris Lorain, died on Friday, March 29, 2013, surrounded by her family, her favorite books, and her music.
"Dodo" was born on September 5,1926, to Peter Christian Johnson and Ragna Behle, in Dalton, Minnesota. She always considered Glenwood, Minnesota her hometown where she lived as the second youngest of twelve siblings. During her senior year of high school, Doris was sent to live in Centralia, Washington, to help her older sister, Muriel, who was expecting her first child while her husband served in World War II. It was during this time that Doris met James Leonard Ortiz, a sailor assigned to the USS North Carolina, at a USO Dance. They corresponded during Jimmy's combat tour and were married on April 6, 1946. They celebrated an amazing, loving life together until 1995, when Jimmy unexpectedly died of cancer.
Working as a journalist and writer for over fifty years, Doris served as writer and/or editor for the Anaheim Bulletin, Orange County Register, and Los Angeles Times. She wrote two unpublished mystery novels and a book of haiku poetry. Over her career, she interviewed several First Ladies, politicians, and celebrities. She has also been listed in Who's Who of American Women. Doris was a master gardener and a member of the Orange County Bonsai Society for many years.
Dodo is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Anne Collell, son-in-law, Ramon Collell; grandchildren, Austin James Collell and Alexandra Carmen Collell; her younger sister, Shirley Bogie; and her dear dog, Cricket. Dodo lost her eyesight to Macular Degeneration ten years ago. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Braille Institute in Anaheim, CA, at brailleinstitute.org
A Funeral mass will be held on Thurs. April 4, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at San Antonio Catholic Church, AnaheimHills. McAulay and Wallace Mortuary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Kim, Ramon, Austin and Alexandria ... Doris was a fantastic gal who will be missed by her family & all that knew her ...she touched many lives & I'm so glad I knew her !!! .... Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Kathy & Richard
Kathy Burinda
April 2, 2013
Loving Sympathy to the Collell Family. Doris was a whirlwind of Strength, Humor and a fine Intellect - qualities that survive in all of you! I'm grateful to have known her!
Sue Hayes
April 2, 2013
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