Albany- Eric A. Ortiz, 62, passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023 at St. Peter's Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born in Queens on January 12, 1961 he was the son of the late Edgardo and Jeannette Kozumbo Ortiz.
Eric was an avid Yankees fan and enjoyed music, traveling, cruising, the ocean and photography. He was an artist and enjoyed painting and graphic design. He loved to cook and share his rice and beans that his grandmother taught him to make. Eric had the gift of gab and never met a stranger.
Despite his several medical issues and becoming a double amputee, he never lost his zest for life, even learning to walk on prosthetic limbs which he had custom designed with his beloved Yankee's logo. Over the course of his lifetime Eric held many occupations including floor installer, cook, limo driver, bouncer, security for concert services. Later, becoming a security officer for the NYS Dept of Health, retiring in 2009.
He graduated from Schenectady Community College with an associate degree in criminal justice in 1999.
Eric was the devoted partner of 25 years to Christine Di Nova.
He is survived by his brother Daryl Ortiz, sisters, Janice Whispell (Newt) and Veronica Ortiz. He will also be missed by his daughters Erica Ortiz and Teresa Ortiz (Yves), granddaughters, Mercedes Goldfeld-Howie, Hayden Piette and Alexia Ortiz. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He will also be missed by his snuggle buddy, Homie.
Thank you to the many friends, neighbors, visiting nurses, staff at Dialysis Clinics INC., his niece Michelle Bolognino for the many kindnesses throughout his illness.
A memorial gathering will be planned at a later date.
Donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association in Eric's memory.
To leave a special message for the family online please visit NewComerAlbany.com