Victor Manuel Ortiz

Victor Manuel Ortiz, age 73, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, the city he proudly called home for most of his life. He was born in Tucson on August 4, 1952.

As a young man, Victor spent several memorable years in Crested Butte, Colorado, where he developed a lifelong love of skiing, fishing, and hunting. After returning to Tucson, he attended Tucson High school, where he wrestled and played baseball, beginning a lifelong passion for athletics that would later shape the lives of countless young people.

Victor proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War with 2nd Platoon, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade of the 25th Infantry . In recognition of his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged.

On October 7, 1972, Victor married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Marianne. Together they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage, building a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion while raising their two daughters, Michelle and Victoria.

Throughout his career, Victor worked for Magma Copper, Mayflower Moving, Jim Click Automotive, and later retired from the Flowing Wells School District. No matter where he worked, he was known for his strong work ethic, kindness, and willingness to help others.

Victor's greatest impact, however, was felt on the ballfields of Tucson. Beginning in 1982, he dedicated more than three decades to coaching youth baseball and softball. As a coach and mentor, he influenced the lives of dozens upon dozens of boys and girls, teaching not only the fundamentals of the game but also the values of respect, teamwork, perseverance, and integrity. Among the many athletes he coached were his own daughters and later his two grandsons, a role that brought him immense pride and joy.

Victor loved to dance, treasured music, and found his greatest happiness surrounded by family and friends. He was a kind and generous man who treated everyone with dignity and respect. His gentle spirit, warm smile, and willingness to lend a helping hand left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Marianne Ortiz; his daughters, Michelle and Victoria Ortiz; his grandsons, Arturo Jr. and Adam (Lindsey) Hoyos; his granddaughters, Trinity and Madison; his treasured great-granddaughter, Alexandria; his brothers, Gerardo Jr. (Sylvia) Ortiz and John (Yvonne) Ortiz; his sister, Sylvia; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Victor's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and his love, generosity, and example will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at San Agustín Cathedral in Tucson 192 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701. A reception will immediately follow at the KC Event Center, 601 S. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, Arizona.

Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we take comfort in knowing that Victor's life was one of purpose, love, and service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. His greatest victories were never measured on the scoreboard, but in the lives he shaped, the character he inspired, and the love he gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association: http://act.Alzheimer's Association /goto/TeamOrtiz-in-memory-of-Victor in memory of Victor or register to join the walk at Reid Park on October 10, 2026.