It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of William “Willie” Milton Ortivez Sr., 75, who departed this life Thursday, June 11, in Great Bend, Kan.
Willie was born December 21, 1950, in Del Carbon, Colo., to Milton and Amalia Ortivez, He was a man of great strength, love, and resilience.
Willie honorably served in the United States Army and later dedicated many years to his career with Dowell Oil Field, Key, and Smileys.
After retiring, he found his greatest joy in spending time with his children. He was a stubborn yet fun, supportive, and loving man who enjoyed the simple pleasures of reading westerns, solving crossword puzzles, fishing, just enjoying his coffee on the porch people watching, and watching reels on his phone.
Above all, Willie was immensely proud of his family. He is survived by his best friend and ex-wife, Misty Ramsey; Salina Kan.; his children: William “Billy” Ortivez (Megan), Hoisington, Kan.; Johnathan Ortivez (Kaylee), Great Bend, Kan.; Justin Giesbrecht (Adrianna), Great Bend, Kan., and Mary Ortivez, Dodge City, Kan.; his siblings: Ronnie Ortivez (Marie), LaVeta, Colo.; Leonard Ortivez, Walsenburg Colo., and Bernice Jaramillo, Ulysses; and his cherished grandchildren: Adalyn and Sutton. He was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of his third grandchild, Armani, this July.
Willie was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lloyd; his sister, JoAnn; and his grandson, Cooper.
A memorial has been established for the William Milton Ortivez Sr. Memorial Fund; in care of Robson Funeral Home, 218 South Main, Ulysses, Kansas 67951.
Services to honor Willie’s life took place as follows:
Visitation was from 12-7 p.m., Tuesday, June 16, at Robson Funeral Home, 218 South Main, Ulysses.
Rosary took place at 9 a.m., Wednesday, June 17, followed by the funeral service at 10 a.m., Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 804 N Colorado St, Ulysses.
Willie will be remembered as a devoted family man and a steadfast friend. His memory will remain forever cherished in our hearts.
