Pedro Ovidio Ortega

Dr. Pedro A. Ortega, 96, of El Paso, TX, passed away on March 22, 2023. He was born in Alquizar, Cuba, on February 22, 1927, to Jose Venancio and Silvia Alicia Ortega. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Consuelo, his son Dr. Jose M. Ortega and his wife Debbie, his daughter Consuelo Ortega, his son Pedro Ortega and his wife Priscilla, and his grandchildren Veronica, Adrienne, Sophie, Dominic, Noah, and Conor. He was preceded in death by his parents, eldest son Eduardo Ortega, his brother Eduardo "Willy" Ortega, his niece Laura M. Ortega, and his cousin Israel Ortega.

Dr. Ortega received his medical degree from El Instituto Superior de Ciencias Médicas de La Universidad de La Habana in 1953. He fled communist Cuba in 1961 and over the next 7 years he tirelessly helped over 40 family members emigrate from Cuba to the United States, many also making El Paso their home. He immediately began working as a physician for the Braceros Program of the Immigration and Naturalization Service at the El Paso International Bridge. In 1963, he began working at Delgado Green Cross Hospital in Ysleta and in 1968, he established his own practice as Ysleta General Hospital. He was a true general practitioner. He delivered babies, performed surgeries, and managed medical conditions. His dedication and loyalty to his patients was evident for 60 years, working until shortly before his passing.

He was a fearless optimist and adventurer who formed long lasting friendships around the world. He enjoyed photography, fishing, hunting, and diving expeditions. He was passionate about decorating his home for the countless El Pasoans who made viewing the elaborate Eastridge Christmas lights, an annual family tradition. He was a humble pillar of strength for his family and community offering sage advice and unwavering support. His amazing storytelling was the highlight of countless family gatherings that along with his infectious smile will be sorely missed. Dr. Ortega set an example of a life, lived to the fullest, that will be impossible to emulate.

His family will be honoring his request of making his final resting place, Akumal, Mexico, his beloved and adopted second Caribbean home.

Please join us for his Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date through the Hillcrest Funeral Home, Dignity Memorial online obituary. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dr. Ortega's name, to the Hospital Auxiliary of Del Sol Medical Center Scholarship Fund, at (915) 630-5842, Ms. Pat Olsen, Director.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestfuneralhomeeast.com for the Ortega family.