Mary Louise Ortega, beloved mother, passed peacefully into heaven on August 25, 2007, surrounded by her family. Mary Louise was born in Morenci, AZ on August 21, 1919 to her parents Jesus and Maria Gutierrez. She is survived by her brothers Jesus Gutierrez and Ralph Gutierrez and sister Angelina Gutierrez, her children: Mary Helen Ortega-Itsell Gary Itsell, John Ortega Roberta Tsosie and Gloria Sanchez, grandchildren: Amiee Coy Todd Coy, Alessa Itsell, Bryce Tsosie, great-grandchildren: Nicole Robinson-Sanchez, Matthew and Michael Coy as well as many nephews and nieces.
One of the first Mexican-American X-ray Technologists in Arizona, she practiced her profession for over 45 years at both the Grunow Memorial and Orthopedic Clinics in Phoenix, AZ. She was a member in excellent standing in the Arizona state League of United Latin American Citizens LULAC for over 25 years. She was a member of Phoenix Council 284 and presently a member of Tempe Council 361. She held all offices on a state, district and council level and served in an efficient and responsible manner. She was the recipient of the LULAC Woman of the Year Award several times. Her involvement, participation and contribution to Arizona state LULAC were vast and professional. She will always be remembered as a great leader in this organization.
With a true gift for languages, she tutored many children and adults in both English and Spanish. She was a caring and loving woman who gave unselfishly to her family, friends and community. She had a great gift for life and her loving ways will be greatly missed. A celebration of her life will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., on Thursday, August 30, from 6 PM-8 PM, with Rosary at 7 PM. Mass will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 2312 E. Campbell Ave., on Friday, August 31, at 10:30 AM. Donations can be made in her name to the Hospice of the Valley. As
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