Raymond Luis Ortega Jr, aged 76, from St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on May 3rd, 2025. Born on November 21st, 1948, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Olga Diaz and Raymond L Ortega Sr.
Raymond served in the United States Army from 1965 until his honorable discharge in 1968. He frequently shared stories about his military experiences and took great pride in his service.
On June 26, 1993, Raymond married Irma (Gonzalez) Ortega at Holy Family Church in Cahokia, Illinois. They were devoted members of St. Paul Catholic Church in Fenton, MO. Their bond began through mutual family friends, and they have remained inseparable ever since.
Raymond dedicated over 30 years to the United States Postal Service before retiring in 2005. A passionate movie lover, he amassed an extensive collection, enjoyed salsa music, and was known for being the life of the party, always making new friends. While raising his three children, he actively engaged with neighborhood kids, playing ball and coaching little league baseball for many years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Michael Anthony Ortega, and his niece Amy Kowerko. He is survived by his wife, Irma (Gonzalez) Ortega; his sister Linda (Ortega) Kowerko; his brother Daniel Ortega; his three children, Raymond E. (Sunny Beasley) Ortega, Christine (Jeffery) Benn, and David Ortega; his two grandchildren, Mycala Ortega and Madison Hilsman; nieces Tanya (Kowerko) Kelly and Gina Kowerko; along with many members of his extended Gonzalez family.
Services: Funeral at Kutis South County Chapel, 5255 Lemay Ferry Road, on Tuesday, May 13, 10:30 am. Interment with honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation Monday, May 12, 4:00 to 8:00 pm.
Ray may you rest in peace. Remember the old days listening to Jose Feliciano. You used to love to listen to him. Our Condolences and Prayers to the Family. Bob and Cindy.
Although we were apart you were always in my heart. You will rest in peace now with our parents and your niece Amy ❤️
I’m sorry for your family’s loss. He always had so much energy and would always help when needed. Taco lunch at the Ortega’s house was always a blast.
Mi buen amigo Raymond gracias por ser mi amigo por muchos años gracias por siempre tratar de una excelente manera a mis hijos. Gracias por tu inigualable amistad. Descansa en paz mi querido amigo. Mi mas sincero pésame a toda la familia.
Ray… Sending you and your family my deepest sympathy.
May your father rest in peace 🙏🏻
Very sorry to hear of your loss. Remember the good times, and smile when he pops in your mind , he’s your guardian angel.
Dear Irma and family,
You have our sympathy for the loss of your dear husband Raymond.
In Jesus’ love,
Marge and Doug Munsell
Dear Irma and family
Chuck and I are so sorry for your loss.
May God lead him home and comfort all of you.
Chuck and Sue Renner
Tio Ray,
Thank you for the many memories we shared over so many great movies when I was younger.
Sending my love and light to the whole family during this hard time.
Alison Gonzalez