Jose' Anibal Ortiz

Jose' Anibal Ortiz
January 30, 1957 - January 31, 2024
Jose' Anibal Ortiz of Westland, MI was born on January 30,1957 in Newark, NJ to Jose' Angel Ortiz and Maria Cintron-Ortiz. He spent many years of his youth living with his beloved grandmother, Margarita Cintron and uncle Anibal Cintron in both Puerto Rico and Newark, NJ. He was married to his beloved wife Christine Gioutsos for 24 years. All preceded him in death. Jose’ passed away unexpectedly in Livonia, MI one day after his 67th birthday.

Jose’ played baseball at the collegiate level for both Seton Hall and Indiana University. Jose’s passion for sports was apparent in his career choice as he worked 30 years in the professional sports industry as an equipment manager, head clubhouse manager and occasionally as a trainer and coach. While he worked primarily in hockey, he also worked in roller hockey and baseball where he won an Eastern League championship with the Toronto Blue Jay affiliate, the New Hampshire Fishercats. Perhaps most notably he worked with the USA Hockey Development Program. During these years he traveled the world working with future NHL players serving as a mentor for many of these young men living away from their parents.

He is survived by his siblings Doris Ortiz, Josue "Joey" Ortiz both of Belleville, NJ, Raquel Ortiz of Olympia, WA, and his significant other, Nancy Bank of Livonia. Also survived by nephews Josue Ortiz Jr, Anthony (Lindsey) Gioutsos, Matthew (Robin) Gioutsos, Alan (Samantha Sharp) Gioutsos, nieces Damaris Rivera-DeOliviera, Marlise Rivera-Zulauf, Nicole Maestas and many grand nephews and nieces. Also preceding him in death is his niece Delilah Rivera-Talbot.

There will be a visitation for Jose’ on Monday, February 5th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at RG & GR Harris Funeral Home, 15451 Farmington Road, Livonia. A Funeral Service will be held at the same location Tuesday, February 6th at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St Jude.org or the Canine Companions Rescue Center.

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