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Dennis G. Ortiz entered eternal rest on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the age of 62. He was born in Karnes City, Texas, on February 22, 1964, to Candelario and Esther (Gutierrez) Ortiz. Dennis was a proud graduate of McCollum High School, where he earned All-District First Team and All-City honors his senior year as the Cowboys’ outstanding shortstop and #3 hitter. It was also during his senior year in 1982 that he met the love of his life and future wife, Elaine. They were married on October 10, 1992, building a lifetime of memories rooted in love, loyalty, and partnership. Their sons Dominick, Derek, and Desmond, gave him such pride. As a father, he was both a teacher and a hero, sharing his love of the game with them and spending countless hours coaching, encouraging, and celebrating their growth on and off the field. Those moments were among his greatest joys. He was consistently supportive in all aspects of raising three strong men through faith and love. Dennis was funny, lighthearted, and lucky. He forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. Whether on vacation with family or friends, Dennis was always at ease. As a husband, he was always caring, present, and supportive. He was a good son, a good brother, a good husband, and a good dad. He was truly a family man. He lived a life rooted in service. As president of 5 Diamonds for the past 15 years, Dennis made many thoughtful gestures, such as handing out snow cones to the kids. He believed in showing up and exemplified this belief by maintaining the fields. He consistently put others before himself by lending a helping hand to family members, offering a listening ear, and making others feel valued and cared for. This past fall he was honored by being inducted into the Harlandale ISD Hall of Fame. Those who knew him will remember his warm presence, steady reassurance, and the way he made people feel at ease. Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives in the love that he gave, the lessons he taught, and the example he set. He was deeply loved and will be forever missed. His world class one-liners will always be remembered and referenced by many for generations to come. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Delmiro and his nephew John Daniel. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Elaine; his sons Dominick, Derek, and Desmond; and his siblings Danny Ortiz, Daisy Valdez (Vernon), David Ortiz (Barbara), Dickie Ortiz (Norma), Donald Ortiz (Edie), and Diana Moreno (Johnny), as well as countless nieces, nephews and extended family. To honor his legacy, the family invites everyone to wear a 5 Diamonds shirt, an All-Star jersey or McCollum spirit wear. Special shout out to Melissa, Lori, Jobeth, Liz and our friends, especially Roger and Flo who worked with Dennis on EVERYTHING 5Diamonds and beyond. Thank you.

Tributes

Dennis G. Ortiz

February 22, 1964 - April 2, 2026