Edward John Ortman

Edward John Ortman (1923 - 2011)

Edward John Ortman, a resident of West Palm Beach, FL for more than 20 years, passed away September 11, 2011 following a mercifully short illness. In dying on his wedding anniversary, he joins his wife Rita Redmond Ortman, who predeceased him in December 2010. Edward previously resided in Tappan and Queens, NY.

Ed was born in New York City in November 1923 and is survived by his sister Elizabeth of Bradenton, FL., his children; Patricia Brinster and her husband Wayne of West Milford, NJ, Robert and his wife Alice of Tappan, Thomas and his wife Mia of Austin, TX and Daniel and his wife Linda of Dallas, TX; and seven grandchildren (Steven, Karen, Jon Daniel, Annie, Samantha, Megan and Emma). A mechanical engineer by training and graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point he was a World War II veteran, serving as Chief Engineer aboard U.S. Liberty Ships and later other commercial vessels.

After he came ashore, Edward worked as an Inspection and Safety Engineer for the Port Authority of NY & NJ for 35 years overseeing aspects of the bridges, tunnels, airports, marine and bus terminals around New York City. Edward traveled the world aboard the ships in his care, continuing his travels for pleasure in the years that followed with Rita.

The epitome of stability, Ed was a loving father, caring husband and good hearted man. Edward unfailingly cared for Rita as she succumbed to the ravages of Parkinson's. He was a good friend and helpful neighbor that the community counted upon. His hobbies included researching the stock market and health related topics as well as gardening and home repairs.

Leaving a big hole in the lives of many, he will be missed.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, 10 am, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Tappan with burial to follow at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, NY. Visiting hours will be Friday, Sept.16th from 2-4 and 7-9 pm and Saturday, Sept.17th at 9 am at the Moritz Funeral Home in Tappan, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation www.michaeljfox.org or 800-708-7644).

Moritz Funeral Home
98 Route 303 South
Tappan, NY 10983
(845)359-0890
www.moritzfh.net

Published in the The Journal News on September 15, 2011