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Eugene Ortenzi Obituary
He was the widower of Mary Jane (Machemer) Ortenzi, who died Nov. 2, 2007.
Born in Philadelphia, he was a son of the late Eugene Ortenzi Sr. and Anna (Ordille) Ortenzi.
“Geno” retired from United Parcel Service, Reading, after 28 years of service.
“Lefty” was a veteran of the Marine Corps, serving in the Korean conflict. He was awarded two Purple Hearts during his years of service, attaining the rank of corporal.
“Mr. Ortenzi” was one of the starting founders of the Hamburg Football Boosters. He was the first “unofficial/volunteer” athletic trainer for the football program from 1969 to 1978. He also was the originator of the “pancake and peanut butter” Saturday morning team breakfast. Additionally, he coached the Hamburg Mite/Midget football teams.
He took great pride in coaching his sons, Steven and Bradley. He also spent many years hunting in the Blue Mountains with his family and friends.
In his earlier years in Shoemakersville, he could be seen coaching the first Shoemakersville Babe Ruth team, and he single-handedly reconstructed the field that remains today.
Gene excelled in soccer, track and baseball at Hamburg High School. He is pictured in the book, “Baseball in Reading,” along with the 1947 Hamburg Legion team.
He also played baseball for the Marines in Hawaii before volunteering for Korea. He was a Golden Gloves champion in boxing.
Surviving are eight children: Stephanie J. (Ortenzi), wife of Scott R. Reichard, Windsor Township; Melissa A. Ortenzi, Hamburg; Jeana L. (Ortenzi), wife of Bruce R. Webber, Marion Township; Corey L. (Ortenzi), wife of Robert Sheperak, Sinking Spring; Belinda M. (Ortenzi) Rank, Bern Township; Bonnie A.(Ortenzi) wife of Brian M. Umberger, Hamburg; Steven E. Ortenzi, and wife, Toni R. (Borzellino), Wyomissing; and Bradley W. Ortenzi, and wife, Lori L. (Groff), Lititz.
Other survivors include 18 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by two sisters, Rita Walters and Genene Ortenzi.
Relatives and friends may call Wednesday 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Leibensperger Funeral Homes Inc., Hamburg. A service of remembrance will be held Wednesday at 8 p.m. in the funeral home, with the Rev. Joel D. Risser officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Liberty Square (a veterans' personal care facility) 86 Main St., Stouchsburg, PA 19567.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Ortenzi
Stephanie Ortenzi
September 5, 2008
Dear Ortenzi family, one and all,
Sincere condolences from Lodovico, Messalina, Joseph and Stephanie Ortenzi from Toronto. I came across the obituary just by chance and was shocked to learn that Uncle Gene has passed. We know him as a loving, warm, funny, intelligent and charming man. My father in particular feels a deep loss for a respected and beloved cousin. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Brian (your bandmate)
August 26, 2008
Steve,
So sorry for your loss. Geno was a wonderful man from what i read. You were lucky to have a great father for such a long time. I hope his passing leaves you with a lifetime of memories and peace.
August 26, 2008
Bonnie, Steve and the Rest of the Ortenzi Family:
I was so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He meant so much to me and the rest of the Hamburg football program. During those long hours in the training room we talked about not only football but life in general. His words were always inspiring and many of the traits he taught his own children were passed onto the athletes he cared so much about. The community has truly lost a great man. My deepest sympathy extends to you and your family.
Matt Figard
Quarterback
Hamburg Class of '78
Charles DeBello
August 26, 2008
Steve,
On behalf of your many friends and coworkers at Everlast Roofing, our deepest sympathy for the passing of your dad.
Joan (Wolfe) Wennell
August 26, 2008
TO: The Ortenzi Family
My deepest sympathy to all of you on the loss of your Dad. He was one of my best friends beginning back in the 50's. He was always there for me and my family whenever we needed him. You are all in my prayers at this sad time in your lives.
Rebecca Donahue
August 25, 2008
Corey and Bob, my deepest sympathy to you at this time. Although i never met your dad, i know what a great loss this is for you. I am thinking of you Corey and if you need anything at all, you can always call me.
Becki Donahue
Nancy (Hiester) Stoner
August 25, 2008
Bonnie, Belinda & Brad-
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your father, and your mother both. It was always evident to me how much they loved you all. Every game, every musical, every concert, they were there. And you could tell that their love was in all of you. Carry that with you all of the days of your life. May God bless you and keep you in his loving arms always. -An old friend.
Jessica and Adam Ohnmacht
August 25, 2008
Melissa and Family,
You and you family are in our thoughts and prayers. Be strong, he is in a better place now. Love you.
Mary Ann & Paul LeVan
August 25, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Kerry Dempsey
August 25, 2008
Melissa, Gina, Corey...
My deepest sympathy is with you all. Love you Melissa! God Bless!
GENE KLINGER
August 25, 2008
To the Ortenzi family,I remember that GENO always had a smile and a kind word.I was his ups driver for many years and he was always there to greet me and ask about the gang.
karl, crystal, nikki & Steven Sunday
August 25, 2008
To our dearest friends, our deepest sympathies are with you and your family. Keep all your memories close to your heart!
Lisa Welfling-Angstadt
August 24, 2008
To the Ortenzi Children,
We offer our sincerest sympathy for the loss of your Father. We would also like to offer the same for your Mother as well, as we were not aware of her passing. Your Father and Mother gave so much love to their children, which was apparent in the way their children showed that same love and kindness to others. God Bless and strengthen you during your time of grief.
The Welfling Family, Mr & Mrs Welfling, Lisa, Kathy and Diane.
Loring Emery
August 24, 2008
We who had kids in the Hamburg area can't begin to tell the world how much Geno did for all of us! We feel your loss and will keep him in our prayers.
Valerie & Doug Miller
August 24, 2008
Dear Steve and Toni,
Our hearts and prayers to you both as you go thru this together. Losing a parent is always hard. May the Lord wrap His everloving arms around your family at this time
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