Rosaria "Rose" (Colon) Ortiz

Rosaria “Rose” (Colon) Ortiz, 67, passed away, unexpectedly, August 28, 2023, at Rome Memorial Hospital, with her loving family by her side.

Rose was born in Brooklyn, NY, October 13, 1955, a daughter of the late Ramon and Juanita (Rivera) Colon. In 2004, Rosaria married Jeffrey Ortiz and the couple shared 18 loving years of marriage, as well as, over 35 years of companionship.

A hard worker, Rosaria was employed for many years with the Spaghetti Kettle, as a waitress. She had many longstanding relationships with her customers, many of whom requested her section everytime they came to eat. She loved her work and she was beloved both in and out of the restaurant. Rosaria could brighten up any room she entered. She loved to travel with her sister and especially enjoyed going tanning, as it was her relaxation time.

Rosa is survived by her beloved husband, Jeffrey Ortiz; daughter and son-in-law, Jeniffer Rosa and Edwin Gonzalez; son and daughter-in-law, Wilson Rosa and Jelitza Jimenez, both of Puerto Rico; grandchildren, Jenielyz, Zoey, Kiara, Alondra, and Liam; siblings, Nidia and Bill Demma, Rosa Colon, Juan and Jackie Colon, Maryanne Humphreys, Michelle Colon, Jane Colon, Judy Colon and Luis Rivera, and Ana Rose Colon; brothers and sisters-in-law, Hilda and George Mateo, Raymond and Debbie Ortiz, Jason and Geraldine Ortiz, and Susanne Ortiz; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Rose had a special place in her heart for her great nephews, Janerio Mateo, Andrew and Cole Demma, and Goddaughter, Alexandria Mateo; and also a special mention of her work family and wait staff at the Spaghetti Kettle. She was predeceased by her brother, William; mother-in-law, Aida Centolella; and sister-in-law Johanne Mateo; nephew, Andrew Mateo; and niece, Emyneth Lopez.

Rosaria’s funeral service will be held Sunday, September 3, 2023, at 6 p.m., at the Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., corner of Mohawk St., Utica, with Pastor Michael Usborne, officiating. Her family will receive visitors Sunday, 4-6 p.m., with the service at the end of visitation.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Rome Memorial Hospital, especially nurse and close family friend, Francesca DeSantis, for their care and compassion during this difficult time. A special thank you to all of Rosa’s customers throughout her many years of loyal service.

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