Irene Ortiz

Irene Ortiz, 98, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, was called to her eternal resting place on August 19, 2025. She entered the world on June 10, 1927, in Las Vegas, NM, born to Juan and Stefana "Annie" Alire. She is survived by her five children, Consuelo "Connie" Grabenstein (Richard Grabenstein), John Ortiz, Patrick Ortiz (Thelma Ortiz), Mary Anita Caress (David Williams), and Raymond Ortiz. She's also survived by her 12 grandchildren, Richard "Rich" Grabenstein (Kimberly Ann), John Grabenstein (Kara Noel Kimberly Gail), Adam Ortiz, Jarrad Ortiz (Natina), Lyndsy Ortiz, Kristi Williams, Jodi Davidson (Mike), Kevin Caress, Lucas Caress, Benjamin Ortiz, Nicolas Ortiz, and Matthew Ortiz; and, her five great-grandchildren, Alexis Haile (Tyler), Riley Ortiz, Brandon, Dylan Grabenstein, and Everett Grabenstein.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Epimenio "Pepper" Ortiz; parents, Juan and Stefana "Annie" Alire; and her seven siblings, Mary, Ben, Francis, Rafaela, Margaret, Johnny, and Anthony Alire.

She is remembered for the loving care of her family, as well as her gentle compassion for all those blessed to know her. Her great sense of humor, smile, and laugh will live forever in the hearts of her family and friends. She was a devout Catholic, possessing a deep devotion to her Blessed Mother Mary, her Rosary prayers, and St. Anthony. She died as she lived with her Rosary in her hand. She attended Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish.

Her Rosary service and eulogies will be conducted on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m., at FRENCH - Lomas, with visitation beginning at 6:00 p.m. Her funeral will be conducted Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish, 2621 Vermont St. NE. A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, September 11, 2025, at Santa Fe National Cemetery.