Jose Ortega Duran

In memory of Jose Ortega Duran.

It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to a remarkable man. Jose Duran was born April 17, 1929 in a small village in the outskirts of the state Guanajuato, Mexico named Las Tablas. He was born to Jesus Duran and Juana Ortega. Married for 70 years to his one true love and wife Hermelinda Alfaro Mireles.

At age 15 years old he left his small village to move to the city to work and provide for his parents and siblings. He later continued to be able to provide for his children. He then started his own work in the U.S. as a Bracero in 1960. Thereafter, he became a U.S. citizen. In spite of the hardships and obstacles, nothing was impossible for him in completing his goals.

He availed himself of the opportunity to build a better future for himself and his family. He was a pillar of strength and constant source of support for his eight children: Josefina, Edmundo, Catalina, Fidelia, Sylvia, Patricia, Jose Jesus, and Jorge.

Jose was a man of faith and wisdom and the definition of discipline. In spite of humble beginnings, nothing was impossible with his faith in God, hard work and determination. He moved mountains one shovel at a time. And if there was no shovel, one handful at a time. His quick wit and unexpected comments, jokes and ability to make you laugh at family parties will be missed.

He lived his life fully. He was all in. He said what he needed to say, when it was needed to be said. He did what he needed to do, when he needed to do it and he did everything that God put him here to do. He was a man of few words but his actions spoke volumes. His unwavering commitment to his family and his work ethic were an inspiration to all who knew him.

He peacefully passed away in the morning of April 26, 2023. Just nine days after his 94th birthday, surrounded by all of his family, in the comfort of his own home. Though we are heartbroken at his passing, we take comfort in the knowledge that he lived a full life.

May we find solace in the memories of the times we shared with him and the love and wisdom he bestowed upon us. Rest in peace "Apa", "Jefe", "Father", "Papa Jose", "Buelito", "Grampz". You will be forever missed, but your legacy will live on through your children and grandchildren.  

We rejoice that you are with God.

We would like to thank all of the Heartland Hospice nurses. Specially Sarah but we couldn't have done it without Bonnie.

Please join us for a devotional rosary at 10 am and a mass at 11 am on May 2, 2023:

Our Lady of Refuge,

1140 Preston St.

Castroville, CA 95012

Funeral services following mass:

Queen of Heaven Cemetery,

18200 Damian Way,

Prunedale, CA 93907