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ROSS H. ORTEGA, SR.
January 14, 1935 ~ June 1, 2013
Ross H. Ortega, Sr. of Ridgefield, WA, passed through the bonds of this life after 78 years of a life well lived. Despite a five-year struggle with a rare neurological disorder, he gave his all and stayed as long as he could! He was a winner to the end. He was the oldest of six siblings born to Novar and Fidelia Ortega in Montoya, NM. They moved to Vancouver, WA in 1943 to work in the ship yard industry when his dad joined the Coast Guard Reserves.
Ross grew up in Bagley Downs and graduated from Vancouver High School in 1953, gaining many friends.
Following a year at Clark College, in 1956 he pursued a career in court reporting, graduating from the Academy of Stenographic Arts in San Francisco, CA in 1960. Ross also earned his National Merit Writer Certificate later in his career. He was the President of the Oregon Reporter's Association for one year. Ross also served eight years in the Navy submarine reserves from 1953 to 1961 earning his Dolphin Badge along the way.
" Nothing compared though to the love for his family
of five kids and eventually seven grandkids!
He never missed the kids sports games."
Ross married Barbara Avery in 1959. Her father had the Avery Richfield Service Station on Columbia St. in Vancouver. The early years of their marriage was spent working in Fresno, CA; Portland, OR; Pendleton and Eugene, OR before settling in Ridgefield, WA on their 11-acre farm in 1969 where his love was growing, planting, and tending his fruit trees and blueberries. Most of all, he enjoyed plowing up things on his old Ford tractor!
Ross is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 54 years; children, Ross Jr., Chris, Miguel, Nick (Patty) and Virginia (Damon) Richards; sister, Genie (Bob) Marxer; brother, Vincent (Edwina); seven grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Virgie Wieber and Vicky Hill; brothers, Novar Jr. and Val Ortega.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary's of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Ridgefield, WA at 11:00 a.m., preceded by the scriptural Rosary and eulogy at 10:30 a.m., Sat., June 15, 2013, with a luncheon at 12:00 p.m. The burial blessing will be at 2:00 p.m. at Northwood Park Cemetery.
Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Six years but it seems like only yesterday that I saw you last.... you were one of the nicest people I ever knew Ross.....
Janice Rudeen
Acquaintance
June 3, 2019
Sorry for your loss. I'm so glad I got to meet him before he pasted. I've heard nothing but great things about Ross. Take care and GOD BLESS YOU!
Trixie Ortega
July 7, 2013
We never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love. I would have loved to have known Uncle Ross better.
“God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
July 7, 2013
Thank you Aunt Barbara for including me so I could be there these last few months to spend time with Uncle Ross and the family and help when I could. Wish it could have been under happier circumstances, but there were still quite a few laughs. I treasure every minute spent there with family and meeting some of your long time family friends. Uncle Ross always had an enviable quick wit, which he never lost, and every time I think about him I remember some of those funny moments. It's been such a blessing to spend time with my family after being gone for 25 years, and I've loved hearing the stories about how you and Uncle Ross met, where you've lived, and so many things I never knew. Seeing your deep love and devotion Aunt Barbara warmed my heart and it was and is nice to see the outpouring of love for you both. Sending out my love to you and all his children, grandchildren, sister, and brother who are mourning the loss of such a special man who is greatly missed.
Theresa (Ortega) Randolph
June 24, 2013
I wish I could have been there but, I am so happy that uncle Sonny lived such a wonderful fufilling life. He tuly was always the charachter when we would come and visit. He was always so sweet and funny. He loved his family with all his heart. I know that he will be watching over you as well and only wants you to continue to be happy aunt Barbra. I could not imagine loosing the one I love most on this earth but, I know you are strong and with Gods help you will get through this. I love and miss you dearly. Continue to pray and put all your trust, sadness,faith and love in Jesus. Love you tons and cant wait to come see you next year.You will meet the newest addition to the family:) Love Natalie Driver
June 21, 2013
My Deepest Condolences. May God's love help all of you to stay strong and help all who loved Ross find peace.
Blessings
Mary Lou Ortega-Shaw
June 20, 2013
Trese Randolph
June 19, 2013
I am so very saddened to hear about Ross passing. I have so many wonderful memories with your family. Ross was an amazing father and a true Holy man, I still have my bible that Barbara and Ross gave me at my highschool graduation. It still holds a special place in my heart as does your family.
I am praying for all of you , dear Ortega family and God Bless and keep Ross eternally. Much Love, Tracy Castner Herron.
Tracy Castner Herron
June 19, 2013
I keep remembering how sweet uncle Ross was when my mom was ill. He had the best sense of humor, I'm sure he has the heavens rolling with laughter!
Kathee Ortega Criger
June 18, 2013
I was sadden to hear from my sister Patty about Ross, I only had one opportunity to meet, spend time with, and to become friends with him. We shared many emails as I live in Louisville, KY. and he in Portland (?). We would laugh at the silliness of email junk, funnies, and sometimes the seriousness of life in general. My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful time at Ross and Barbara's house one Fourth of July and dinner with all the family ... I shall never forget my nephews having a great time with fire works (sparklers) and dressed as Spiderman, the hero of time until Grandpa got the sparklers going and I am sure he became the hero at that moment. He, Ross, seemed to be the happiest man in world at that time. He will be missed, his memory will be with us forever! His family will be in my heart and prayers for many years to come.
Nolan & Theresa Hulsey
June 18, 2013
A wonderful person who made my original years of service as a judge memorable. He was outstanding as a reporter and as a father. I was out of town at a wedding or I would have paid my respects at the funeral.
robert harris
June 18, 2013
Barbara and family I think fondly of every minute I spent with Ross, he taught me about his bees, his trees and gave of himself to me as he did to all he met. I know he will watch over his loved ones forever....Janice Rudeen-Graven
Janice Rudeen-Graven
June 16, 2013
Grandpa has set sail for the heavens, he isn't gone but beyond the horizon. Im beyond thankful for everything my grandpa has done for me and my entire family. He taught me so much growing up and encouraged me to go after my dreams and to treat my woman like the angel she is. there wasn't a day that went by without grandpa expressing his love for my grandma. Grandpa told me that people can be mean but family is what matters and as long as you have a quick jab (punch) you should be able to keep your distance and wear out your enemy and in the end you may become best friends. Having a nice car was great and all but if it couldn't carry manure it wasnt worth much. My grandpa makes me smile every time I think of him. I love you and I will miss you very much.
Noah Ortega
June 16, 2013
I will miss Ross, he meant a lot to me just like his sister my wife meant to me. I loved spending time with him and laughing with him, I have so many memories. I guess we are all supposed to feel like this when we loose someone as dear as Ross is, he could always make you laugh and I loved that about him. God bless you and your family. Seth E. Hill III.
June 15, 2013
God bless everyone who has joined together to mourn the loss of Mr. Ortega today.
Maria
June 15, 2013
Ross's sunny disposition and positive ways were a blessing to our lives and we continued to be friends after our neighborly bond formed. Ross you will be missed but know you are in good hands. Barbara and Family, sorry I won't be able to make the event today but will stop by when I come back into town next week. Soft landings, Captain Crystal Stout
Capttain Crystal Stout
June 15, 2013
I love the family Ross has created and proud to be a part of it. I thank God for putting me in his path and changing my world. I will miss you here on earth.
Robin conomos
June 15, 2013
Love you Uncle Sonny Candy! R.I.P, you were a great Man,Father & you will be truly missed!
Seth Hill IV
June 15, 2013
When we lose something, whether someone very dear to us, or an object we treasure, it feels as if a part of us is missing, We can never replace what we have lost for it was original, When Ross passed away, I began to feel sad, I felt pained, I could feel how effect this had on everyone, but then remembered that he will always be in our hearts, that I should not be sad, but be joyous and smile, because he gave me another reason to live. This reason is family, a death of a loved one, will for sure bring us closer together. It reminds that we all still have each other, even in the darkest of times.
Sundrea Ortega
June 15, 2013
I am was so blessed and thankful to have a Father like you Dad! God sure did use you for His glory and you have made such an impact on so many people. Although I hated the ugly disease that stole your life, I am so thankful that God turned it into something beautiful and everlasting, I wouldn't trade all the precious memories we had during your illness for nothing. Our times together will be sorely missed and I am at peace knowing you are rejoicing and dancing in Heaven with family and friends. I love you Daddy!!! Your Daughter, Mary Virginia
June 15, 2013
To My Sweet Heart Husband, who sacrificed so much to stay with us. I'll be loving you...always! Barbara
June 15, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers to Barbara and all of Ross's family, friends and loved ones. We pray that God will give you peace, comfort you in your loss and sorrow, and heal the brokenhearted. We are grateful for Ross's service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service. "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones even in this their hour of sorrow. Thank you for your service to our country." -- Rev. Ray Fritz, National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI.
Chaplain Ray Fritz
June 14, 2013
I so wished to come and pay my respects to Ross and the Ortega family. I will be out of the country, but my thoughts will be with you all. We're all aging but still in my heart and memories.
Ron Onslow
June 14, 2013
We are so sorry to hear of his death. He came from good people that valued life, hard work, love,sharing burdens and blessings. We will miss his smile. Fedilia "Phyllis" Carbajal- McIntosh and Angelina Carbajal Nemchick
June 13, 2013
Ross is a dear, sweet soul and a devoted husband and father. Whenever I would visit, he would ask me how I was, in spite of all he was going through. The graciousness with which he faced his long illness, is a strong testimony to his faith and the unwavering support and love of his family. His presence here on earth
will definitely be missed.
Linda Wade
June 13, 2013
I met Ross during elementary school. While he was blessed with exceptional skills, talents and looks, Ross possessed great humility, love of family and a friend to all. Ross and I made two submarine cruises out of San Diego CA and visited Muscle Beach LA, Rosarita Beach MX and Ensenada MX in the mid 1950's. I cherish these photos of our adventures together. I know this is a great loss to his loved ones…may the grace of your God be with you during difficult time.
June 11, 2013
My Brother was a wonderful Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Uncle, and friend to everyone, he was always on your side, and he was always an up-lifter, never a downer, I love my brother!!!!
Genie Marxer
June 10, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go to you and your family at this hard time.Ross will always be with all of us.Ross was a great father and person and will be in our heart always.So Sorry~ Will be praying for all of you. With love.
Sheryl Barber
June 10, 2013
Nick and Family
Our thoughts are with you. Prayers for peace and comfort. Your dad was a wonderful man.
Cristy McCuistion - Rowley
June 10, 2013
Our thoughts are with you in your time of farewell to your husband of many years. Our prayers have been going to Heaven for all of you through out this long period of Ross's illness. You will always remain in our prayers, as Ross will remain in our hearts.
barbara may
June 9, 2013
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