Amelia "Rose" Ortega

Amelia Rosalie "Rose" Ortega of Denver passed away on her 70th birthday, April 13, from complications from a hernia surgery.

Rose was born on April 13, 1954, in Denver, Colorado, to Mary Anna (Martel) Martinez and Anthony Trejo. She is survived by her three daughters, Diana Garcia, Monica Ortega, and Marsha Acosta (Angelo); six grandchildren, Maria Cruz, Marissa Ortega, Kolby Parker, Santiago Ortega, Luisidro Cruz, and Lino Cruz; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition, her surviving siblings, Anthony Trejo (Berta), Veronica Trejo, George Martel Jr, Sara Guytan, and numerous nephews and nieces.

She is preceded in death by her late husband, Louis Kelly Ortega, her parents, and seven of her siblings.

Rose was united in marriage to Louis Kelly Ortega on June 21, 1996, in Denver, Colorado. Rose was a strong and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, auntie, cousin, and friend. Rose's passing has left an enormous void that can't be filled. For many years, her health had many complications from her battle with Lymphoma and COPD. During the years, she was cared for and adored by those she was closest to. Throughout the trying times in her life, she never wavered her strength or commitment to getting better. Rose's life was one of love, giving, and brutal honesty, all wrapped in a strong wit, in which she enjoyed every minute with her family and friends. The meaningful relationships and friendships she formed filled her with gratitude.

Rose's love for cooking extended far beyond her kitchen. She regularly prepared meals for neighbors, friends, and family. Her integrity garnered loyal customers along her burrito route and catering essential dinner parties. Her most favored service was cooking for the kids at the daycare centers. Her authentic Mexican cuisine earned her the endearing nicknames of the "Burrito Lady" or "Mama Rose." Her culinary skills were not just a profession but a way to bring joy and nourishment to those around her. When we say, "Not only our hearts but our tummies will miss her," we acknowledge the unique way she touched so many lives, often through the love and care expressed in her cooking or the shared meals that will become cherished memories.

She was a proud member of the West Denver community and a friend to many in the Valverde and Athmar neighborhoods. We want to welcome everyone to join us in celebrating her life and the impact she had on so many. Services will be held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church on Friday, April 26, at 10:30AM, with a rosary, mass, and a reception to follow. Her final resting place will be Fort Logan Cemetery with her late husband, Louis Ortega, on their anniversary on Friday, June 21, and everyone is invited to attend.