Cathy Denise Ortiz, a truly rare and beautiful soul, passed suddenly and unexpectedly
on July 29, 2020 at the age of 53.
Cathy is survived by many who love her dearly: her mother, Tania Vigil, sister Jacqueline
Ortiz-Skenderidis; brothers Willfredo and David Maldonado; nieces Tania and Athena
Skederidis, Michelle Maldonado, nephews Theodorous and Anestis Skenderidis, brother-in-law
Anestis Skenderidis; uncle Mike Felix, life-partner Owen Gomez, step daughter Andrea Gomez,
and so many more family and friends. Cathy and her family shared an extraordinary bond. Her
life revolved around her immense love for family and dear friends, and was reciprocated by all
who were lucky enough to meet her.
Cathy was raised in Connecticut, and returned to her birthplace of NY where she
graduated from SUNY with a Degree in Nursing. However, Cathy had adopted the role of
caregiver way before she possessed this title. From caring for her family, rehabilitating sick
animals, helping those in need, and bringing joy to the sick, Cathy never went a day without
helping others, embracing any challenge or obstacle necessary
In addition to being a nurturer, Cathy had a vibrant passion for life. She loved to travel,
enjoyed trips to Rhode Island and eating exotic cuisine- sushi being her favorite. She was
adventurous, loved to dance, ride scooters on the island, parasail, and scuba dive. Cathy
touched all with her rare sense of compassion and scintillating personality. Her presence was a
true blessing; she had a smile that would light up a room, and a laugh that warmed your heart.
Her beautiful life will forever be cherished and her legacy continued in the lives of her
loved ones. Cathy, in the hands of the lord, will continue to watch over and eternally bless
others as she has done her entire life.
A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, August 6, 2020 at 11:00 am at St. Mark the
Evangelist Church, 467 Quaker Lane, South, West Hartford, CT 06110. All friends and family
are welcomed. In the time of this current pandemic, everyone is asked to respectfully wear a
mask.
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