Oscar Octavio Ortiz, passed away at home surrounded by family on February 4, 2016. He was 92 years old and survived by wife of 63 years Dina, children Luz, Connie, Jerry, and Jane, grandchildren Michael, Chase, and Lauren, as well as other extended family and friends both domestically and internationally.

Always a bit unsettled, his adventurous spirit led him to many cities and countries throughout his life. Initially an owner of a jewelry store in the early fifties, he decided to accompany his sister to a small province and temporarily teach English intentionally overseeing her well-being as she got settled. It was during that providential journey where he first met his wife-to-be Dina. Several years into marriage, he began to set his sights on a life in North America. After a few years in a position with Univac Corporation in Colombia as an early computer pioneer, he was given the opportunity to transfer to the United States. Initially, he left his family to go to the University of Michigan and perfect his ability to speak English, then to get settled in the United States preparing a way for the rest of them to join him. Originally working in New York City, Oscar quickly saw it wasn’t the best place to raise children, so he bought a home in the outskirts of Washington, D.C. in Maryland. By the early sixties, the then five-member Ortiz family followed a path many immigrants dreamed of taking. A few years after the birth of their fifth child, the Ortiz’ moved to Manassas where he resided until his death.

Over the years, Oscar was known for making many friends whether it be through his watch-making, teaching English at the local library, periodically attending church, or extensive travel. He will be remembered for his love of music, as a fierce provider for his family, and with a sharp mind, incredibly inquisitive and a survivor to the end.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, February 13, 2016 beginning at 3:00 p.m. at Baker-Post Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 10001 Nokesville Road, Manassas, Virginia.

Interment will be private and at a later date.

Please sign the guestbook at www.bakerpostfh.com

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