Felix D. Ortega

Felix (Felucho) D. Ortega Sr., age 93, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away in the early morning of December 6, 2024, at Swedish Hospital Hospice Care, where he was surrounded by a roomful of powerful, loving women, his favorite music and deep prayer.  His final moments were peaceful and beautiful. Felix was born on October 21, 1931, in Los Palacios, Pinar del Río, Cuba, to Otilia Fuster and Felix Ortega. He was the youngest of five siblings, including his sister Olga Fuster and brothers Emilio Ortega, Gregorio Ortega, and Mario Ortega. In 1959, Felix fled Cuba following the Castro revolution, embarking on a courageous journey to the United States in search of a better life for himself and his family.  He made Chicago his home, where he worked for over 25 years at S&C Electric Company.  He also worked at La Siesta restaurant as a charming waiter for decades. He was known for his dedication, hard work, and commitment to his family.  Felix met his beloved Josefina through a pen pal exchange, and their love blossomed through letters, phone calls, and pictures.  He traveled to Mexico to ask for her hand in marriage, and soon after, he brought her to Chicago, where they married and built a life together.  They shared their union for 55 years until Josefina's passing in September 2019.  Felix was a devoted father to Danny, Greg, and twins Susie and Patty. He was also a proud abuelo to Steven Martinez, Maya Alonso, and Natalia Rojas Stocco Schultz.  Felix loved and supported his children and was deeply proud of their many accomplishments.  He was especially honored to call Darlene Ortega, Marcos Alonso, Evelyn Borchert, and Juan Martinez his children-in-law.  Felix had a close bond with his extended family in-law’s, Elena Ortega, Dulce, MaryCarmen, Hector Del Toro, Lucy, Eduardo, Martha, Cathy Rojas, and Francisco Silva. He was a beloved uncle to Malena Ortega, Marco Garcia, Frankie and Chris Silva, Tania Rojas-Pocius, Jared Pocius, Gabriella, Angel, Brenda, and Monica Weatherston, Elizabeth and Beto Rojas, Sonia, Adriana, and Diana Rojas, and a great-uncle to Lisandro and Andres Resto, David and Lilia Escobar, Rafael Rojas, Diana, Mario, Elizabeth, Nico. Carolina Rodriguez, and Mika Silva.  His family will remember him for his kind heart, focus, sense of humor, and deep caring for his family at home and abroad.  Felix had a special connection with animals.  As an adult, he overcame his childhood fear of dogs and enjoyed taking care of our beloved family pets: Taffy, Rocky, Chuey, Bo, and Pepe.  He also had two cherished cats, Clump and Spaz, and kept parakeets for many years.  His love for animals was a reflection of his caring nature and his ability to open his heart to all living things.  A man of deep faith and generosity, Felix contributed to numerous charities over the years. His kindness and commitment to helping others were a defining aspect of his character.  He was a dedicated member of St. Gregory Church, volunteering regularly until his health declined.  His contributions to charities like World Vision exemplified his kind spirit, with his sponsorship of a young monk named Jampa holding a special significance.  Felix was also a passionate Cubs fan with fond memories of attending the games at Wrigley Field. He kept active as a long-time bowler, always finding joy in these pastimes.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 15th, 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Drake and Son Funeral Home, 5303 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Chapel prayers will take place at the funeral home on Monday, December 16th at 10:00 a.m. to St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 5445 N. Paulina, Chicago for Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private.  

Felix will be remembered for his hard work, generosity, love for his family, and unwavering commitment to others. He was known for his wit, charm, and infectious sense of humor. A great singer with a love for music, Felix even dabbled in radio work over the years. His legacy will live on in the lives of those who knew and loved him, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Memorial contributions made to Go Fund Me to help offset funeral expenses are greatly appreciated by the family.