In Loving Memory of Michael Heriberto OrtizAugust 22, 1991 – May 22, 2025

Michael Heriberto Ortiz, 33, of Kersey, Colorado, passed away on May 22, 2025. Born on August 22, 1991, in Brighton, Colorado, Michael brought warmth, creativity, and boundless love into the lives of all who knew him.

Michael was a man of many passions. He found joy in life’s simple and profound moments—whether it was going fishing, creating music, drawing, stargazing, or spending time with his beloved pets and cherished family. He had an unmatched appreciation for the quiet beauty of the night sky and the unspoken comfort of being close to the ones he loved.

A proud graduate of Northridge High School, Michael’s biggest accomplishment was not just his education, but the depth of love and loyalty he gave to others. His deep and unwavering faith in God was the foundation of who he was. He could speak about his faith for hours and always found a way to share his light with others. Michael often said he knew "a little about a lot," and those close to him knew he was wise far beyond his years. He had a heart so big and genuine that once you knew him, you never wanted to be apart from him.

He shared a deep and unbreakable bond with his wife and best friend, Autumn Tennent. Together, they dreamed of traveling the world in an RV with their beloved animals—exploring snowy mountains and far-off places like New Zealand, Peru, and Australia.

Michael adored animals and was a loving pet parent to his terrier mix, Helenas, and eight cherished cats: Catherine, Taz, Crash, Hulk, Smokey, Bam-Bam, Tiny Taz, and Sabertooth. His home was always filled with love, laughter, and the sound of paws.

A lover of movies and football, Michael especially enjoyed Marvel and DC films—Spiderman and The Flash being his favorites. He often watched The Lion King with his fur babies by his side. A proud Denver Broncos fan, he rarely missed a game and held onto the joy of his high school football days.

Michael worked as a cook at the Kersey Inn, where his passion for food was evident in every dish he prepared. He found great pride and purpose in his work, bringing warmth and flavor into the lives of those he served.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Autumn Tennent; his sister, Silvia Ortiz; his mother, Sylvia Magallanes; his father, Paul Ortiz; and his stepchildren Mariah, Jordan, and Elijah Cardoza. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his spirit and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services and Tributes

Michael will be cared for by Northern Colorado Crematory in Greeley, Colorado. Friends and loved ones are welcome to send flowers or donations directly through the funeral home in his honor.

In honoring Michael’s life, may we all remember to pause, look up at the night sky, and feel the peace he so often found there.