Rodolfo "Rudy" David Ortega

Rodolfo (Rudy) D. Ortega, beloved father and grandfather entered into the Kingdom of heaven on June 4, 2008, following a lengthy illness. Mr. Ortega was born to Julian and Jovita Ortega on September 6, 1937. Rudy as affectionately known by family and friends was a 1955 graduate of El Paso High School home of the “Tigers.” After graduating from high school he enlisted in the Air Force and took basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, subsequently he was stationed at Pensicola Air Force Base and Biggs Air Force Base where he worked as a jet engine mechanic on B-52 Bombers. Rudy also flew missions in KC 135 tankers in Europe as an aircraft refueler. Upon being honorably discharged from the Air Force his next occupation was with the El Paso Fire Department from which he retired after serving twenty (20) years. He received Meritorious recognition from both the Air Force and the El Paso Fire Department. Rudy was an avid fishermen and enjoyed cooking and grilling for family and friends. He was a considerate and compassionate person who cared profoundly for family and friends. He will be greatly missed by everyone. Rudy was preceded in death by his wife Evangelina Ortega, father Julian Ortega, Sr., brothers Julian Ortega, Jr., and Tomas Ortega. Survivors include mother Jovita Ortega, his beloved children David (Rosario), Cindy Garcia (David), Patricia Ortega (Greg Brewer, fiancée). Siblings, Martha Rivero (Elias), Alicia Apodaca (Carlos), Ric Ortega (Marie), and Alejandro Ortega(Rebecca) Surviving grandchildren include Michelle Garcia, Lauren Garcia, Aaron Garcia, Daniella Ortega, and David Ortega II. Other survivors include Dominga and Rudy Maldonado. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, Tuesday, June 10, 2008 with Vigil/Rosary at 7:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home-Northeast. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am, Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Pallbearers are David Ortega, David Garcia, Aaron Garcia, Greg Brewer, Ric Ortega, Alejandro Ortega, Carlos Apodaca II, and Humberto Rivero II. Interment will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Homes-Northeast. Please visit on-line register book at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net.