Roberto Ortiz's Obituary
Roberto was born to Benito Ortiz and Manuela Carderon on April 17, 1940, in Santurce, Puerto Rico. He was the fifth of eight siblings: Escobar, “Pepon,” Michel, Victor, “Vitito,” Agustin, “Tingito,” Benny, Mario, Rosa, Maria, and Francis. He deeply loved his family and always cherished family gatherings, finding great joy in spending time with those he loved.
Roberto had a strong love for sports, especially boxing and baseball. At a young age, he took up boxing, and his passion for sports later led him to a career as a boxing trainer. In addition, he dedicated time to teaching children in a baseball league and also participated as a baseball pitcher on a team. He later retired after working as an engineering technician at Albert Einstein Hospital in New York City.
His favorite foods were mashed potatoes, fried chicken, and salad. He also enjoyed rice, beans, salad with codfish, and shrimp.
In 1976, Roberto accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. During his evangelical ministry, he
faithfully served in hospitals, funeral homes, burials, street services, children’s
ministry, and as a Deacon, among many other acts of service. At heart, he was a true
worshipper—a prayer warrior and a prophet. He loved to sing, and one of his favorite
worship songs was Merecedor de Alabanza. He also wrote a song titled Amado Mío.
Roberto loved playing the congas and praising God, as the Lord blessed him with the gift of singing and the inspiration to write. He would sing to his grandchildren and even create songs to help them fall asleep.
On March 29, 1972, Roberto married Nora, and together they shared 54 years filled with challenges, faith, love, and joyful moments. His greatest joy was found in the love and laughter of his children and, most especially, his grandchildren. Known as a playful prankster, Roberto delighted in playing jokes with his grandchildren. Every evening at 9:00p.m., he made them coffee—a tradition they will always remember. In addition, he had a remarkable talent for imitating people, bringing laughter wherever he went.
Roberto was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: “Pepon,” Michel, Victor, “Vitito,” Agustin, “Tingito,” Mario, Rosa, and Maria. He is survived by his siblings Benny and Francis; his children Nora, Brenda, Tony, Yesenia, and Michael; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.
Roberto will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his joyful spirit, his love for music and worship, and his deep devotion to family. His legacy of love, laughter, and service lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he will be dearly missed, his memory will continue to inspire generations to come.
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