Harry "Skipper" Ortego, Jr.

Harry "Skipper" Ortego, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023, at the age of 69. Born on February 7, 1953, Harry leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Known affectionately as "Skipper," Harry lived his life to the fullest, finding joy in simple pleasures and creating lasting connections with those around him. A man of many interests, he enjoyed spending quality time with his family, trying his luck at the casino, embarking on hunting adventures in the great outdoors, cruising, and meticulously mowing lawns to perfection.

Harry's genuine warmth and genuine personality touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. His sense of humor brought laughter to any room he entered and left an indelible impact on those who knew him best. He had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel like they were part of his family.

In this time of profound loss, Harry will be deeply missed by his loved ones. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Becky Ortego; their children: Christopher Ortego and his wife, Heather; Janice Ortego Guidry and her husband, Jerry; Hollie Ortego Stagg and her husband, Scott; as well as his sisters, Jeannie Ortego Roy and her husband, Kearn; and Sherry Ortego Meche and her husband, Warren; his grandchildren: Brandon, Bailey, Lexi, Alyssa, Rylie, Charlotte, and Weston; and his great-grandchildren: Leila, Holland, Alex, and Grayson; and his mother-in-law, Anna Fontenot.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Bert Ortego, Sr. and Norma Jean DeJean Ortego; his fathers-in-law, Louis Bernard and Burton Fontenot; and his forever friend, Zoe.

To honor and celebrate Harry's life, visitation services will be held in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at LaFond-Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas, Louisiana, on December 22, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Rosary service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening in the funeral home led by Deacon Jerome Collins.  Visitation will continue on Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.  in the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Opelousas at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 23, 2023, followed by Rite of Committal and burial at Bellevue Memorial Park. Rev. Mgsr. Keith J. DeRouen will celebrate the Mass.

Pallbearers will be Johnnie Fontenot, Gabe Speyrer, T. Boy Hargroder, Nick Foret, Gary Roy, Brandon Guidry, and Bailey Guidry.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the entire staff of LA Hospice and Palliative Care, especially to his nurse, Tish; as well as his physicians: Dr. Harmon, Dr. Burnell, Dr. Veerina, and Dr. Raza for their wonderful medical care.

Rest peacefully now, Skipper. Your presence will continue to guide us as we navigate the journey ahead.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA, 70570 (337)942-2638 has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.