Benjamin Ortiz Jr., born in the year 1950, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, his life was filled with laughter, love, and service to his community.

Ben leaves behind his devoted wife of 42 years, Phyllis Ortiz. He was the cherished father of Annette (Aaron) Hernandez and doting Step-Father to Rachel (John) Chavez. His legacy carries forward through his many grandchildren: Rafael Cisneros Jr., Robert Cisneros, Michael Ortiz, Arturo Montano, Elycia Velasquez, Alex Mayorga Jr., Joseph Mayorga, 9 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

His life is celebrated by his siblings, Richard (Anna) Martinez, Mary Alice (Juan) Baez, Maria (Erik) Larsen, Irene (John) Marquez, and John (Marilyn) Madrigal, who remember him fondly for his vivacious personality and caring nature.

Ben is preceded in death by his Father Ben Ortiz Sr., Step-Father John Madrigal Sr., his mother Rosie Martinez-Madrigal, his son, Benjamin Ortiz III, and his sister, Rosemary Ortiz.

Benjamin was an Engineer and Project Manager for many years as a civilian contractor on what is now known as Vandenberg Space Force Base.  Ben was a generous spirit, volunteering at Moose Lodge of Lompoc, The Elks in Yucca Valley, and the Santa Barbara Jaycees. He was also a committed member of the American GI Forum Lompoc. He shaped his community by giving back, and his absence will be felt by many.

In his leisure time, Ben enjoyed golfing and listening to oldies music, cheering on the Los Angeles Rams, and most importantly, spending cherished moments with his family and friends. His personality brightened any room, he was the life of the party, always telling stories, and making those around him laugh.

His greatest life lesson was to be kind and love one another, a practice he lived out daily. Ben's smile, laughter, and kindness will remain in the hearts of all who knew him and will be profoundly missed.