Manuel Ortiz was born on February 7, 1938, in Rio Piedras Puerto Rico to his mother Juanita Maisonet and his father Manuel Ortiz. He was a devoted husband to his late wife Blanca Ortiz for 53 years and a loving father to his four children. Zeneida Toledo (Tony) of New York; Manuel Ortiz, Jr. (Mary) of New Mexico; Adrianez Ortiz of Florida; Leslie Taveras (Derrick) of Florida. He was a grandfather to nine grandchildren: Daniel, Ruben, Christine, Shawn, Melissa, Bethany, Andrew, Madison, Jayden, and a great-grandfather to seven great- grandchildren. He was also a brother to six siblings. who leaves behind a sister to cherish his memory.
Remembering Papi AKA Papa Papi was the true definition of a man’s man. He worked hard, he provided and supported his family. He protected us and loved us. He was the kind of man that would do it himself and figure it out. The kind of man that could build you a house and fix your car at the same time. He was a simple man that enjoyed the little things in life. He was a die-hard Mets fan. He loved golfing, Wapa TV, Jeopardy, Price is Right, Salsa music, spanish food, playing the lotto, and being home with his family. Papi had a great sense of humor. He loved to laugh, and when he laughed
you couldn’t help but laugh too. His joy was infectious that way. He had jokes for everybody. You knew that If Papi cracked on you at least once, then you were in, he loved you. That is how he showed his affection. He was true to self and loved where he came from, which he represented well. Whether that be a Puerto Rican flag in one of his cars, a Puerto Rican hat, or a Puerto Rican shirt. He made sure you knew he was Puerto Rican. Papi was authentic in his way, and you knew that what you see is what you get. He was him, and there was just nothing else you could do but love him for that.
Now that he has gone home, he will be missed every day, we find peace and joy knowing that not only will he be with his Lord and Savior, but he will be reunited with his wife. There was no Papi without Mommy. Until we meet again, you will forever be in our hearts. We love you.