Mr. Gil Ortiz-Rodriguez

Mr. Gil Ortiz-Rodriguez, age 90, passed away on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his loving daughters at his side. Born in Barrio Marin in the municipality Patillas in Puerto Rico on May 1, 1926, Gil was the son of the late Lucas and Santa (Ortiz) Rodriguez. He was raised and educated in Puerto Rico. In 1952 he came to the United States and eventually settled in Utica as one of the first Hispanic families to make Utica their home. He was united in marriage to the former Josefina “Josephine” Rodriguez with whom he shared his love and his life for many years prior to her passing on April 13, 2006. At one time Gil held a position with Utica Radiators and later at the Bossert Manufacturing Company as a machinist. Through his affiliation with Bossert at the time of its closing, the Darman Manufacturing Company was inspired by an article written by Joe Kelly depicting Gil’s dedication to that company. This story led to Darman offering Gil a job with them which he accepted, the position from which he retired. Gil was dedicated, selfless, and strong-willed. The needs of his family were always paramount and he instilled in his children the values of respect, love, morality, and the importance of family. Through Gil’s example and his many sacrifices, his children will honor and emulate the wonderful, loving father that he was. They will remember him as a man of steel on the outside and a warm, loving heart on the inside. Gil loved the holidays when he would share his hospitality and his dinner table with other Hispanic families. During the summer he enjoyed spending time with his family at Verona Beach. He was a wiz at playing dominoes, and he loved gardening along with raising his chickens and rabbits. Gil is survived by his children and their loves, Eunice M. Cotto of Ilion, Marian Rodriguez and Louis of Springfield, MA, Udelia “Judy” Rodriguez of Frankfort, NY, Elsie and Marco Bermudez of Utica, Shirley Rodriguez and Nano of Herkimer, and David Rodriguez of Ilion; his 15 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his sisters and brother-in-law, Rosa Ortiz of MA, Rafaela and Juan Cruz, and Jacinta Ortiz, all of Puerto Rico; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and many special friends. He was predeceased by five brothers, five sisters, and his daughter-in-law, Angela Rodriguez. The family is grateful to the staffs of the Albany and Inlet Households at the Masonic Care Community for their care and compassion; and Dr. Guy Wilcox, Dr. Elif Erim, and Dr. Thang Le for their professionalism and courtesy. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Flowers are graciously accepted. Gil’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Thursday at 12:00 from the funeral home and at 1:00 at Historic Old St. John’s Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Buehler. Interment will take place graveside in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Mr. Gil Ortiz-Rodriguez

May 1, 1926 - February 18, 2017