Beloved Sanford George Albert Ortiz, 88, passed away Dec. 31, 2022, at his home, peacefully with his loving family by his side. Making his big entrance into the world on Feb. 22, 1934, the beloved son of Antonio Ortiz and Josefina Marquez Ortiz.

He worked for many years for Conejos County as a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of the St. Joseph Parish in Capulin. On his free time, George enjoyed gardening, going bowling and loved to be outdoors enjoying nature. He was a football fan, and in the fall, he liked watching golf.

He was preceded in death by his parents Antonio and Josefina Ortiz, brothers Lucas and Ernesto Ortiz, sisters Bertina, Teresa and Ermalinda.

George is survived by his wife Elma "Liz" Mitchell-Ortiz of Sanford, Colo.; daughter Patti (David "Flavio") Chacon of Denver, Colo.; sons Ron Ortiz (Anna Wright) of Ivins, Utah; Peter Ortiz of St. George, Utah; Albert Ortiz of Albuquerque, N.M.; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, brother Richard Ortiz of Somers, Mont. He is also survived by many other extended family members and friends.

Vigil Service will be held on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 10 a.m. Both at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Capulin. Interment will follow at the Capulin Cemetery.

To leave online condolences, please visit romerofuneralhomes.com. The arrangements are in care of Romero Funeral Home of Alamosa.