Jose L. Ortega, 67, of Gridley, passed away on Monday, February 3rd, 2025, at his home with his family by his side.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury, is charge of arrangements.

A celebration of life will be held on March 8th, 2025, from 12:00 – 5:00 pm at the Event Center in Gridley, IL.

Memorial donations can be made in Joe's name to the American Cancer Association.

Joe was born on March 8th, 1957 in McAllen, Texas, the son of Raul Rodriguez and Maria Ortega. He attended Fairbury-Cropsey High School and would go on to work as a contractor. He married Sara (Grace) Ortega on July 8th, 2011. She survives in Gridley.

Joe is survived by his wife, parents, and six children: Monica (Kyle) Edelman, Jenica (Mark) Cornell, Erica (Renee) Ortega, Jessica (Kyle) Sigler, Derrick (Kayleigh) Ortega, and Daniel Ortega. He is survived by three siblings: Leroy (Janet) Rodriguez, Cindy (Chris) Rodriguez, and Mickey (Judy) Rodriguez. Joe is survived by 15 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins – he loved them all.

Joe is preceded in death by three brothers: Javier Lopez, Richie Rodriguez, Ray Rodriguez. He was preceded in death by his first wife Debra Ortega on December 29, 1999.

Joe loved to spend his time playing with his grandkids, gardening, playing cards, and tending to his collection of turtles. He was gifted with a great sense of humor, a creative mind, and an artistic ability. He was always tinkering, fixing, and creating. He will be missed by his family and friends.