Jose Arsenio Ortiz

On Saturday, June 19, 2021, Jose Arsenio Ortiz was called home by our Lord Jesus Christ. Aresenio was born to Melquiades Ortiz and Josefita Sena Ortiz on March 19, 1934 in Pecos, NM. Jose was predeceased by his parents, daughter Rafela and grand-daughter Vanessa Ortiz, brothers Moises, Ernesto, Melquiades Jr., Pablo and Toby. Sisters; Esmenia Cordova and Carmen Ornelas. In laws; Gregorio and Maria Garcia, daughter in law, Louise Ortiz, sister in law Lala Ortiz, brothers in law Frank Cordova and Carlos Garcia. Arsenio is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Cecilia Garcia Ortiz, sons’ Jerry, David and Martin, daughters, Jenny and Maria and many grandchildren and great grandchildren, sisters; Celina Roybal (Noberto) and Theresa Hendren (Victor) Arsenio grew up in Pecos on the family farm helping with day to day chores until he enlisted into the Marines on January 6, 1953. After basic training Arsenio was sent to Korea, where he served until his separation on May 9, 1955. Arsenio was a very proud Marine, he was proud to have served his country. After leaving the Marines, Aresenio returned to Pecos, NM and met his wife of 67 years, Cecilia Garcia. Arsenio and Cecilia were married on January 19, 1954 and together raised 6 children. Arsenio worked numerous jobs throughout his life, construction, mining, Santa Fe Rodeo Grounds manager and other part time jobs after his retirement. Arsenio loved horses, especially his loyal companion, Chico. He and Champ experienced a lot of beautiful rides into the Pecos Wilderness including many successful deer and elk hunts. After getting to the age where he wasn’t able to he still remained very active and took pride in maintaining his beautiful yard. Arsenio was an early riser and would leave home by 7:30 in the morning and head out to visit family or friends. Arsenio will be missed by his nephew, Jody Ortiz, he would visit with him faithfully every Saturday and Sunday morning for some coffee or if he received a letter in the mail that needed immediate attention, he will be missed as well by special friends; Jerry Gonzales, Charlie Sena and Tony Roybal whom he visited daily until he was unable to drive.

Visitation will be on July 7, 2021 at 5:00 pm with a rosary starting at 6:00 pm. at Rivera Kiva Chapel of Light. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, July 8, 2021 at 10:00 am with a reception immediately following the mass at the American Legion in Pecos, NM and military burial honors will be at 3:00 pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.