Manuel Ortiz

Born in 1942 to Jesús and Carmen Ortiz, in Torreón, Mexico, Manuel Efren Ortiz, migrated to the United States at the age of eight with his parents. Losing his mother at an early age shaped his desire to build a strong family. He spent time following his father, a bricklayer, and learned English by going to the drive-ins and watching American films. He enjoyed dancing and spending time with friends, including the Hernandez brothers, leading to him meeting the love of his life, Zoila Hernandez. Manuel and Zoila spent time with friends, went to Mexican dances on the weekends and enjoyed one another's company throughout their childhood and teen years; eventually marrying in 1964. Together, they continued living life together, traveling and camping. Travel continued to be one of their favorite pastimes, as they took their kids on family vacations over the years, including trips to Traverse City to visit the beautiful area he grew to appreciate as a young migrant worker. Becoming a citizen of the United States was a true sense of pride for him. Manuel gained many riches throughout his life; his first and favorite treasure was his wife, Zoila, whom he loved fiercely. He continued to be a family man and looked forward to spending time with his grandkids as the couple continued to grow in marriage and life experiences together. Their love story spans six decades, as he waited until the day after their 60th anniversary to pass away. Manuel left the earth peacefully surrounded by his entire family. Preceded in death by both of his parents and sister Maria Elena Betancourt. He is survived by his wife, Zoila, their children, Michael (Larissa), Deborah (Anthony) Flores, Marco (Nicole), and his grandchildren, Sierra, Marco, Brianna, Peyton, Sofia, Lola, Stella, Ava, Presley, and Cash, as well as his great-grandchild, Manuel (Manny) Ortiz, his sister, Rosie, as well his family still in Mexico, including his two sisters, Aurora and Lupe and his nieces and nephews. Manuel's wish was to go peacefully in his home, surrounded by loved ones and chose not to have a funeral service. His family will host a mass at St. Peter & Paul on Saturday, January 13th at noon. In order to honor his memory, donations can be made to Zepf Center or Women of Toledo.

Manuel Ortiz

May 8, 1942 - January 5, 2024