Caleb Castillo Ortiz

Caleb Castillo Ortiz, 78, of Las Vegas, NV passed away on September 15, 2025 in Las Vegas.

Caleb was born in Uvalde, TX to Josue Cruz Ortiz and Maria Juanita Castillo on January 26, 1947.

From an early age, Caleb embodied discipline, service, and leadership. At just 18 years old, he was drafted into the United States Air Force, where he dedicated over 20 years of honorable service; achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. He specialized as an Air Traffic Control Technician and spent most of his early career deployed to Vietnam. He was awarded numerous decorations, which include the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with a Silver Service Star.

After retiring from active duty, Caleb continued to serve his country for another 12 years as a civilian with the U.S. Air Force at Vandenberg Air Force Base where he specialized in information assurance, cyber security, disaster preparedness, and critical infrastructure protection. He held a Top Secret Clearance and contributed to national defense through his work as an Integrated Critical Infrastructure Program Administrator and Information Technology Specialist. His responsibilities included leading major Department of Defense Information Assurance Certification and Accreditation projects, overseeing system security and risk management, and ensuring mission-critical systems met the highest standards of reliability. He was widely respected for his ability to lead teams, solve complex problems, and provide mentorship to future leaders in the field.

In recognition of his excellence, Caleb received multiple Performance Awards, Notable Achievement Awards, and Time Off Awards throughout his civilian career. In 2005, the 30th Range Management Squadron at Vandenberg AFB named him Civilian of the Year as a testament to his outstanding dedication and professionalism.

Caleb pursued higher education with determination, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 1975, and later completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology from Concordia University in 2000. He also achieved advanced certifications including Certified Network Administrator, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, and A+ Computer Technician, reflecting his lifelong commitment to growth and excellence.

Outside of his service, Caleb worked in various leadership and management roles, including AV-Tech Communications, Wells Fargo, Greater Suburban Mortgage, and BOMAR Security. His affiliations are with the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineer (IEEE). He was known for his ability to inspire others, his integrity, and his devotion to helping colleagues and family succeed.

Caleb is preceded in death by his parents Josue Cruz Ortiz and Maria Juanita Castillo.

Caleb is survived by wife Priscilla Ortiz, son Caleb Jr (spouse Andrianna), Granddaughter Aureliana, Grandson Leonidas, son Donald (spouse Patricia), Granddaughter Taylee, Grandson Kobe, Grandson Landon, son Brian, Granddaughter Sophia, Granddaughter Olivia.

Visitation & Funeral services will be held from 11:00am-3:00 pm, Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at Davis Funeral Homes & Memorial Park located at 1401 S Rainbow Blvd, Las Vegas, NV.

The family of Caleb Ortiz extends heartfelt gratitude to all who supported him and his family, and to the many who were touched by his mentorship, service, and friendship throughout his life.