Gilbert Perez Ortiz, Jr.

Gilbert Perez Ortiz, Jr., age 55, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Gilbert was born September 13, 1969, in Albion, Michigan, the son of Gilbert and Rosie (Perez) Ortiz. Gilbert grew up in Albion and Battle Creek, Michigan. He was a 1988 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Sienna Heights. Gilbert honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy, serving on the seas for two years.

He dedicated much of his life to strengthening families and empowering fathers. He ran a non-profit community fatherhood program, mentoring and bringing fathers and their children together. He was actively involved in many community organizations, including New Level Sports. Gilbert loved spending time with his family, keeping up with the news on TV, and playing Solitaire. He had a quiet strength and a giving heart that touched many lives. Gilbert will be remembered for his compassion, dedication to community service, and unwavering love for his family.

Surviving are his children, Sierra Ortiz of Battle Creek, Adam Ortiz of Sarasota, FL, Dre’aun Ellis of Battle Creek; two grandsons, Grayson Ortiz and Ke’air Ellis; siblings, Lupe (Robin Murray) Ortiz, Jose (Elena) Ortiz, Carlos Ortiz, Juan (Irma) Ortiz, Eddie Ortiz, Carlos Ortiz, and Rudy Ortiz; Bonus family, parents Ramon and Rosita Garcia; sisters, Libe Rangel and Ofelia Rangel; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and their families. Gilbert was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa, and a brother, Fidencio Vasquez.

Military honors and committal will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, August 14, 2025. A gathering to celebrate Gilbert’s life will be held at The Link, 311 W. Michigan Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49037, at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, August 14, 2025.

Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.