Nelson Ivan Ortiz, Sr., 81
SGM, United States Army (Ret.)

Nelson Ivan Ortiz, Sr., 81, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025. Born in Maunabo, Puerto Rico, he grew up on his family's dairy farm before moving to the Bronx in the 1950s. He later attended the School of Agriculture, but his plans to open a dairy farm in upstate New York were set aside when he was drafted into the United States Army in 1965. Nelson went on to serve proudly for 29 years, retiring in 1994 as a Sergeant Major.

While on leave visiting family in New York, Nelson met the love of his life, Dilia. They married on January 13, 1968, and shared more than 57 wonderful years together. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his growing family. Nelson also held deep affection for his extended family, including his dear cousins, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, and nieces, all of whom enriched his life with love, laughter, and lifelong bonds.

A proud New Yorker, Nelson never missed a chance to cheer on his Giants, Knicks, and especially his  Yankees. A true Yankees fan, you could often find him in his office watching the games, shouting at the screen and calling for his wife to come watch with him. Some of his fondest memories were spent coaching little league baseball while stationed in Hawaii, where he shared his love of the game with countless young players.

An avid saltwater fisherman, Nelson served as president of the Peninsula Saltwater Sport Fisherman Association and was an active member of the Coastal Conservation Association. He loved taking family, friends, and eager learners out on the water and frequently volunteered at children's fishing clinics across the Peninsula Teaching young anglers became a cherished family tradition, one he proudly shared with his own children and grandchildren.

Nelson was predeceased by his mother, Catalina Rodriguez-Ugarte, his stepfather, Emilo Ugarte Sr, and his brothers Pedro Ortiz, Samuel Ortiz, and David Ortiz.  He is survived by his wife Dilia; children, Nelson Jr  and Vicki (Kevin); siblings, Jennie (Eddie) and Emilio Jr (Susan); Grandchildren, Nelson III (Kenescia), Catalina, Tyrell, Kera (Tony), Denysha and Niayeve; and great-grandchildren, Adrian, Audrianna, Curtis, Dilia, Saleh, Caelyn, Katherine and Kori.

Nelson lived a life of service, love, adventure, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive friends on Saturday at 3:00 pm at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, 2609 Cunningham Dr., Hampton. A celebration of Nelson's life will begin at 3:45 PM in the funeral home chapel, with a repass and light refreshments immediately following. Inurnment with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.  To watch the Celebration online, please "CLICK HERE" after 3:35 pm.