Dennis Ortiz

Dennis Thomas Ortiz, age 67, of Greenville, MI passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on Tuesday March 19, 2024, after a long-fought battle with diabetes. Dennis, known to many as “Chief”, was born on April 13, 1956, to Jesus & Jovita (Cornego) Ortiz in Carson City, MI. He was a devoted family man who cherished his loved ones above all else and found immense joy in the presence of his two grandchildren. He was very excited to soon be welcoming his first great grandchild, whom he will now be watching over from heaven. His love for laughter was infectious and he was always ready with a joke and enjoyed a good belly laugh. He had a passion for classic cars and was a proud owner of several throughout his life. He could often be seen cruising through town in one and was likely on his way to spend time with family over a much-appreciated home-cooked meal. Dennis was an avid supporter of his children and their friends/classmates, especially in their sporting endeavors. He had a generous heart, always willing to lend a helping hand and welcoming anyone in need into his home. This genuine care for others earned him the love and respect of many in the community. Dennis was often heard saying, “it is what it is”. A motto he lived by, a reflection of his easygoing nature and positive outlook. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers John and Joe Ortiz; and sister Rocki Harris. He is survived by his three children with his ex-wife Christine Ortiz of Greenville: son, Fabian (Jennifer) Ortiz of Greenville, daughter Shannon (Tom) Anton of Fruitport, and daughter Karen (Rob) Clark of Lakeview; his grandchildren: Chloe (Jake) Ortiz of Greenville and Adrian Anton of Fruitport; his step-grandchildren: Nathan and Matthew Anton of Fruitport; brothers and sisters: Margaret Judy Davis of Greenville, Jesse Ortiz of Grand Rapids, Dick Ortiz of Greenville, and JoAnne (Eddie) Abbott of Baldwin; and many, many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to join the family to celebrate Dennis’ life from 5pm-8pm on Saturday April 13, 2024 (which would have been his 68th birthday) at the Greenville Community Center located at 900 E. Kent Rd. Greenville, MI 48838. Food and drinks will be provided to commemorate his life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the memorial fund established in Dennis’ name with the local community center. Donations can be made at the following link or by using the QR code available. https://garcctickets.ludus.com/donate.php Dennis’ presence will be forever missed by all who were blessed to know him. Even in the end he found a way to smile, make jokes and laugh. May he be forever remembered for his kindness, sense of humor and unwavering love for his family. We love you, Chief. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Dennis' online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen's Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Dennis Ortiz, please visit our flower store.