Frank Ortega

Frank Almendares Ortega October 12, 1932 – November 7, 2024

It is a great sorrow and immense pride that we announce the passing of Frank Almendares Ortega, 92 on November 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 12, 1932, in Snyder, Texas, to Francisco Ortega and Maria Almendares Ortega, Frank (Pancho) was a proud resident of Palm Desert, California, since 1967. His life was a testament of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his family and work.

Frank is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Soledad Luna Ortega; his parents, Francisco, and Maria Ortega; his daughter, Aurora L. Groce of Palm Desert, CA; and his siblings, Pete Ortega, Tino Ortega, Steve Ortega, Tony Ortega, and Juana Ortega. He is survived by his four children: Jesse Ortega (Dorothy Denise) of Thousand Palms, CA; Sylvia Ortega of Palm Springs, CA; Connie Ortega of Palm Desert, CA; and Jacqueline Neal (Mark) of Conifer, CO. He is also survived by his siblings: Joe Ortega (Phyllis) of Indio, CA; Mary Vasquez of Salt Lake City, UT; Mollie Vasquez (Willie) of Whitefish, MT; Johnny Ortega (Mary) of Cathedral City, CA; Josie Ortega of Texas; Ray Ortega (Tina) of Ada, Oklahoma; and Mateo Ortega (Elida) of Desert Hot Springs, CA, along with many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Frank lived a life of dignity and integrity, and those who knew him understood that his strength wasn’t just physical, but emotional and moral. Frank believed in doing the right thing, no matter the challenge. He was a man of few words, but those who listened to him came away wiser, better, and inspired.

Coming from humble beginnings in Rotan, Texas, Frank traveled as a migrant laborer, following the crops from Texas to Montana and beyond. He fondly remembered a man named Auto Quast who gave him his start in Montana. Later, Frank took the opportunity to settle in the Coachella Valley, where he built both a life and a legacy. Starting with a landscaping and gardening business, he eventually grew his efforts into a successful trucking and excavating company, Frank’s Trucking, a true self-made success, and a source of pride for his family.

Frank enjoyed spending time at the beach in Oceanside, gathering with friends at the casino, and, above all, being with his family. His personality was larger than life, and his strength, work ethic, and love have left a lasting impact. We are profoundly grateful for the 92 wonderful years we shared with him. Though he is gone, his memory will live on in the generations he helped create.

The family invites all those whose lives were touched by Frank to join in celebrating his extraordinary life at Forest Lawn Mortuary with a family reception after. (Details provided at the service)

Frank’s legacy will never be forgotten, his enduring strength will continue to guide us, and his memory will live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Frank, until we meet again.