Enrique Ortiz

Enrique Ortiz died peacefully at home in New Orleans on Oct. 14, 2019. He was 60 years old. Enrique died after a heroic, seven year battle with neuroendocrine cancer. His cancer started in his colon and then metastasized to his brain resulting in his death. His upbeat and positive nature during his fight with cancer inspired many. Enrique is survived by Margo Smart, his wife of fifteen years. His son, Kristopher Ortiz, and his two brothers, Fernando Luis Ortiz and Roberto Ortiz. Enrique's mother, Alma Ortiz and his father, Luis Ortiz have both passed. Enrique Ortiz graduated O.Perry Walker High School (1977). He graduated U.N.O with a Bachelor's in Psychology (1983). He graduated Tulane University with a Master's in Clinical Social Work (1989). Enrique worked as a Clinical Therapist at Ochsner Main Hospital/Psychiatric Dept. from 1994-2004. Enrique enjoyed helping his patients through difficult times via counseling sessions and many support groups. After Hurricane Katrina, Enrique and Margo relocated to San Diego, CA where he worked at the Naval Hospital as a Clinical Therapist in the Psychiatric Dept. working with active duty service men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. His speciality was P.T.S.D and he was known for his kind and compassionate nature and for helping military families reunite under difficult circumstances. He worked at the Naval Hospital from 2006-2015. In 2015, Enrique retired and he and Margo settled for a few years in Rincon, Puerto Rico at his family's home. In 2017, Hurricane Maria forced them to evacuate the island. They returned to New Orleans to seek health care and spend Enrique's last months reuniting with friends and colleagues. Enrique was cremated and there will be a simple memorial service at home. (TBA). For more information please email his wife, Margo Smart artsparklers1@yahoo.com