Zan Ortiz

Ortiz, Zan. April 12, 1961-April 10, 2009. Our beloved Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Uncle, Cousin and Friend, passed away peacefully on Good Friday at his parents home in Brea. He was born in Burbank and lived many years in La Habra and Brea. His passing was peaceful and unexpected due to complications from diabetes. He traveled through life with great humor and artistic talent. The last 20 years were spent in San Jose and Arcata where he was an enthusiastic drummer, participating in drum circles in Golden Gate Park and Arcata. He left behind beautiful jewelry he hand crafted, as well as beaded art objects and paintings. His family knows he was met in Heaven by grandparents, Martin and Mary Swain. He is survived by his parents, Gus and Barbara Ortiz; daughter, Jessee Goss; son, Timothy, and their mother, Danette; his wife, Carla in Arcata; sisters, Diana Miller, Joyce Nichols, and Laura Greendyke; nieces, Lara, Christy, Rebecca, Abra and Arlena; nephews, David, Lexy, Joe and Dave; uncle, Joe; aunt, Lillian and cousins, Dick and Hal. A service was held on his birthday, April 12th in Arcata. Another service will take place for the scattering of ashes in the beautiful forest he loved so much, the date has not been determined at this time. Rest in peace dear Zan. Your light will shine in our hearts forever.

Published in the Orange County Register on 4/17/09.