Blanca R. Ortiz

Blanca R. Ortiz 1933 - 2023 Holyoke Blanca R. (Melendez) Ortiz, beloved wife of 55 years of Francisco Ortiz Flores, who predeceased her in May of 2006, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 13, 2023, at her home in Holyoke surrounded by her family. Blanca was born on September 28, 1933, in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, she was raised and educated in Puerto Rico before coming to the states in 1958. Blanca retired as a bilingual secretary for the Holyoke Public Schools for 22 years. She was a dedicated member of the Catholic church and community, motivated by the love of Christ to serve others. She enjoyed her work at the Holyoke Senior Center. Blanca was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Jerome's Church in Holyoke. She is survived by her beloved children, Louis Albert Ortiz and wife Fatima of California, Rosa Rivera and husband Anibal of Holyoke, Doris Ortiz of Chicopee, Debbie Cabrera of Holyoke, Ana Ortiz and husband Michael of Holyoke, Emily Ortiz-Carattini and husband Angel of Belchertown; predeceased by son Gary Ortiz; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; two sisters; and dear nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, March 21, for calling hours for Blanca from 4 – 7 p.m. at Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St., Holyoke. Blanca's funeral will be held on Wednesday, March 22, beginning at 8:30 a.m.from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Catholic Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Jerome Church, 169 Hampden St., Holyoke. Burial will follow immediately after the mass at St. Jerome Cemetery, Holyoke. In lieu of flowers, donations in Blanca's name may be made to St. Jerome Church, 169 Hampden St., Holyoke, MA 01040. For more information, please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com .