Terry Ortego

Terry Ortego, 92, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 20, 1932, Terry lived a life marked by faith, dedication, and unwavering love for those he held dear.

A man of deep devotion, Terry's faith was the cornerstone of his life. His faith wasn't just something he spoke about; it was the foundation of how he lived. He sought to live in service to others, guided by humility and love, and always leaning on the strength and grace of his Creator. His life was a living example of devotion to faith and family, and through his actions, he reminded us of the importance of walking with integrity, kindness, and purpose.

Terry's character was shaped by his time in the military, where he developed the discipline, honor, and resilience that would define him. These values carried over into every aspect of his life, from his professional life to the way he led and cared for his family. He was a man who stood firm in his beliefs, worked tirelessly, and faced life's challenges with courage and grace.

Among his many roles, the ones Terry cherished most were those of husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love for his family was boundless, and he was the anchor who kept them steady through life's storms. His unwavering devotion to his beloved wife, Wanda June Dossmann Ortego, was an inspiring example of partnership and commitment that spanned over seven decades.

As a father, Terry led by example, teaching his children what it meant to be kind yet firm, strong yet compassionate. He celebrated their victories, no matter how small, and stood beside them through every challenge. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. Nothing made him happier than seeing their smiles, hearing their laughter, and knowing his legacy would live on through them.

Terry had a way of making everyone feel valued. Whether it was through a thoughtful word, a warm hug, or simply being present, he made it clear that family was his greatest treasure. He found joy in life's simplest moments-sharing stories, sitting around the dinner table, or just being together.

Though Terry will be greatly missed, we are comforted in knowing that he is currently walking on the streets of gold with the Lord he so faithfully served. He leaves behind not just memories but a legacy of love, strength, and faith that will continue to guide us.

Terry is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Wanda June Dossmann Ortego; his sons, David Ortego, Doug Ortego (Angie), and Scott Ortego (Diana); grandchildren, Jeremy Ortego (Tiffany), Kayla Ortego Gray (Brian), Megan Ortego Vincent (Zach), David Ortego, Aaron Ortego (Michelle), and Alexa Ortego Daigle (Kyle); bonus grandchildren Hadley Hantz, Hallie Hantz Sturdavant (Cody); and great-grandchildren, Madison Ortego Middleton (Noah), Jacob Ortego, Joey Ortego, Jonah Ortego, Jordan Ortego, McKensie Ortego, Bryleigh Gray and her fiancé Daxton Cormier, Connor Gray, Camden Gray, Baylor Vincent, Gray Vincent, Harlow Vincent, Kiersten Ortego, Drayton Ortego, Blakesly Daigle, and Kingslen Daigle, all of whom will carry forward his legacy of faith, love, and strength.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ruthie Margaret Griffin and William Athanas Ortego, as well as other cherished family members who now welcome him home in the arms of the Lord.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Johnson Funeral Home in Moss Bluff, with a graveside service to follow at Griffin Hills Cemetery in Bunkie, Louisiana, at 2:30 PM. Visitation will be open to the public on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Home in Moss Bluff and will resume Monday morning at 9:00 AM before the funeral service.

In addition to flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project and the Alzheimer's Association.