Gilbert C. Ortiz

Gilbert C. Ortiz September 28, 1930 - November 19, 2008 Gilbert Ortiz Sr. left us for his next journey from the comfort of his home, surrounded by family, on November 19, 2008. Gilbert was born September 28, 1930, in Delta, CO, the son of Elijio and Flora Ortiz. The second youngest of nine, Gilbert married the love of his life, Patricia Pacheco, one day before leaving for the United States Army; he was stationed in Hokido, Japan. After completing his 2 year enlistment, Gilbert joined Patricia and son Gilbert Jr., in Thompson, Utah where Gilbert continued his employment with the railroad, while the couple welcomed additional children to their family. In 1962, Gilbert "made a move" with his family of seven to Grand Junction, where he worked as a welder. During the next 11 years, Gilberts family grew to include 11 children. Gilbert supported his family as a welder until he retired in the year 2000. Gilbert was a member of St. Jospeh's Catholic Church for over 40 years; prior to that, he was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Delta, CO. His passion included playing the guitar for his band (The Valley Troubadors), listening to music, hunting and fishing, camping, playing dice, driving his Harley, and working with his hands. Gilbert did his best to instill the importance of family to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Gilbert was a remarkable husband, father, son , brother, uncle and friend to many. He was good-natured, humble, and kind beyond measure with enthusiasm for all that life had to offer. Once a person came into Gilbert's life, he considered them family. Left to hold Gilbert in their hearts and memories are the following: his wife, Patricia; his children, Gilbert Jr. (Memory), Chris, Kathy (Jose), Theresa, Mario (Darlene), Francis (Mike), Candy, and Gavina; his sister Ruth (Donald) Medina; his 26 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren, and many more relatives and dear friends. Gilbert Sr. has surely already joined up with his loved ones that left ahead of him: his parents, Elijio and Flora, brothers, Joe, Louie, Paul, Claude and Pete; sisters, Cora, Delores, and Lupe; his beloved sons, Rabon, Corey and Adrian; and his grandson Christopher. A memorial mass celebrating Gilbert Sr.'s life will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Grand Junction. The rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25th, at Callahan Edfast Mortuary; the viewing will begin at 5 p.m. Memorial Contributions can be made to Patricia Ortiz at the Bank of Colorado in Grand Junction.