Mahopac resident and Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department Life Member John Ortiz, affectionately known as "Johnny O," died of natural causes on Saturday, Oct. 24, according to his obituary.
A Mahopac resident since 1968, Ortiz was an Honorary Chief of the department, where he served for more than half a century. The department announced his death on Tuesday, Oct. 27, remembering him as their Sergeant-at-Arms.
Ortiz was born on May 15, 1936, in Manhattan to Robert and Consuelo Macaya Ortiz. He grew up on 135th Street in Manhattan and joined the New York National Guard at age 18, his obituary said.
He later worked as a truck driver for Public Fuel in New York City, delivering heating oil to buildings throughout the five boroughs before retiring.
After moving to Mahopac, Ortiz became a fixture in the local firefighting community. During his decades with the Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department, he held several leadership positions.
His commitment to volunteer firefighting extended beyond Mahopac. Ortiz was also a Golden Life Member of the Putnam County Volunteer Firemen's Association, which he joined in 1976, as well as a member of the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association and the Putnam-Northern Westchester Fire Police Association.
The Putnam County Volunteer Firemen's Association paid tribute to Ortiz following his death, noting that he had been recognized for 50 years of service at its annual convention in July, although he was unable to attend.
Beyond his firefighting career, Ortiz was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He married his wife, Carol Ciccimarra, on Dec. 22, 1956, at the Church of Our Lady of Esparenza in Manhattan.
In addition to his wife, Ortiz is survived by his daughters; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three brothers; and a sister.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home in Mahopac. The Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department will hold a Firematic service at 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.
Funeral services will follow on Thursday, Oct. 29, at 10 a.m., also at Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home.
Click here to read Ortiz's full obituary.
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