A man of integrity and faith, Hector Armando Ortega Atondo was called to be with the Lord on Monday, January 20, 2025. He was born on January 13, 1939, in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, to Jesus and Maria Luisa Ortega.

In 1954, he met Norma Ceseña Ibarra whom he married on October 26, 1963; they recently celebrated 61 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love and everlasting partnership. He was instrumental in forming a family united around the values of love, faith, respect, and service to others.

Armando was a devoted family man and his children's successes filled his heart. He inspired in them a strong work ethic and a love for learning, and with his unwavering support, Norma, Hector, Laura, and Erika all graduated from the University of Arizona. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and as their Tata, he embraced his playful side and created countless treasured memories. As a beloved big brother to his sisters Lucy and Laura, he was a pilar of strength and steadfast support throughout their lives.

Known for his infectious laugh, engaging smile, and kind heart, Armando had a gift for making those around him feel valued. He embraced life fully, celebrating big occasions like his birthday, which he had thoroughly enjoyed just a week before his passing. He looked forward to the smaller moments that brought family and friends together and wholeheartedly welcomed the opportunity to provide the entertainment with his jovial nature.

In his youth, Armando aspired to a career in aviation. Though life led him down a different path, he worked tirelessly in various trades, including at the Phelps Dodge Smelter. In 1970, his family acquired a cattle ranch that became his lifelong passion which he worked up to his last day. His innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach to life & work left a lasting legacy.

Armando's presence, generosity, and zest for life will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his sisters Laura (Marino) Artea, Lucy (Chale) Edmondson, and their children, sons-in-law Neil Durkes (Norma), Jason Brown (Erika), and his grandchildren Ryan (Kaela) Ortega, Adam (Ellie) Ortega, Reese, Cade and Jace Necas.

Services will be held at St. Luke's Catholic Church on Friday, February 7, 2025. A rosary will be recited at 10:30 a.m. followed by a mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial of the cremains will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Douglas, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family can donate to the charity of their choice in his name and/or perform an act of kindness in his honor.

The family would like to thank all who have offered condolences and provided comfort during this difficult time.