Concord, New Hampshire
CONCORD - Israel "Bob" Ortiz, age 73, died Saturday, June 30, 2012, at Concord Hospital after a brief illness.
The son of the late Belen Cosme and Julio Ortiz, Bob was born in Puerto Rico and moved to New York City in 1943 where he resided until 1969 when he moved to Concord.
During the 60s Bob was a member of the Jewels, a top band in NYC performing in nightclubs and backing many popular singing stars as well as opening for well known bands of the time. In New Hampshire he played many clubs and special occasions with the bands A New Day and The Nightriders. He loved music of all kinds and often brought his guitar to entertain at gatherings and events. He was an avid reader, sports fan, and from childhood enjoyed debating with family and friends.
In addition to his professional music career, Bob worked for the State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services for 35 years, retiring from the Office of Child Support Enforcement in 2004.
Bob is survived by his wife, Lynn Beckwith (Ortiz) of Concord; sons, Robert Edward Ortiz and his wife Kelly of Louisville, Ky., and Steven McCarthy-Hunt of Aylesbury, England; Dan Connor of San Rafael, Calif., and Scott Beckwith and his wife Bridgett of Concord; a daughter Heather Alvarez of Taylors, S.C.; his brothers, Angel Paniagua of Bayshore, N.Y., Salvador Paniagua of Miami, Fla.; sisters, Elsa Paniagua of Carmel, Calif., and Raquel Selinger and her husband Dr. Melvin Selinger of Arcata, Calif.; several grandchildren, great -grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
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SERVICES: Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, July 5, 2012, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Waters Funeral Home, 50 South Main St., Concord.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 6, at 1 p.m. in the Chapel of the Waters Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to change the life of a child through Smile Train, P.O. Box 96231, Washington, D.C., 20090.
To my eternal regret, I hardly knew you, Dad. Now its like I'm being handed the corner pieces of a huge jigsaw puzzle, one where I know the final picture instinctively, but rely on so many others for, for details. I have learned so much about you that I am prouder than I could ever have known, not only of you, but more than anything, to be your son. Until we meet again, in the next world... love you, Dad x
Steve McCarthy-Hunt
August 05, 2012 | Aylesbury
to a man i never got to know but he is my brothers father thoughts a prayers going to you my friend cherish the time you did get to spend with him as i did our other father as they are in the same place now
your bro chris
chris connor
July 09, 2012 | New Boston, NH
We didn't know Bob well, but it was well enough to see that he was truly "one of the good guys."
Kathy and Nik Sorokin
July 07, 2012 | Bowie, MD
bob you were a truly unique and wonderful man and will remember you always i first met you in 1964 in new york and only spent a small part of my life n your company but it is indented in my memories forever thank you for my wonderful son steve whome i treasure rest in peace now will see you on the other side sometime di
July 06, 2012
I was so very saddened to hear of Bob's passing. I worked with Bob at DCSS and he was truly a wonderful man. No matter how difficult the project or problem, Bob handled every issue with a smile and a contagious attitude and spirit. He gave my law partner and I our first law firm's gift - a wonderful brass sign with our firm name that I will always look at with the fondest of memories of Bob and his generosity and kindness. I send my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. He will...
Cathy Shanelaris
July 05, 2012 | Nashua, NH
my love and best wishes go with you love di steves mum
diana
July 05, 2012
Bob gave me an opportunity with the Division that I feel many would not. He made me (and others, I'm sure) feel as though my opinion counted and encouraged deeper thought. He will be truly missed and my heart goes out to his family and friends.
Ora LeMere
July 03, 2012 | Nashua, NH
A true and ever present friend you were to my father. You will be sorely missed. Your love of NY, reading, music, both performing and teaching will not be forgotten. We loved visitng your family over the years and we are deeply saddened by your loss. My dad will be heartbroken when I share this sad news with him.
Our thoughts are with you,
the Holske family
Robin, Rebecca and Cynthia
Rebecca Holske
July 03, 2012 | Boscawen, NH
Offering our deepest condolences at this difficult time.
The Entire Staff of Waters Funeral Home
July 03, 2012 | Concord, NH