Ortega, Jose Mendoza, Sr., 76, of Big Spring, died on Friday, October 20, 2000, in a local hospital. Prayer services will be at 7:00 PM Saturday at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood Chapel. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Monday, October 23, 2000, at the Northside United Methodist Church with Rev. Manuel Navarette, officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Memorial Park. He was born on February 14, 1924 in Toyah, Texas and married Paula Olague in May 1949 in Big Spring. He was a longtime resident of Big Spring. Mr. Ortega was a member and musician for the Northside United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Hot Potato Band and had served in the United States Army during World War II. Survivors include his wife, Paula Olague of Big Spring; seven sons, Jose Ortega, Jr., Rudy Ortega, Albert Ortega and Sammy Ortega all of Big Spring, Johnny Ortega and Carlos Ortega both of Phoenix, Arizona and Raymond Ortega of San Angelo; one daughter, Mary Lou Puga of Big Spring; one brother, Margarito Ortega of Big Spring; two sisters, Rosa Diaz and Virginia Sosa both of Big Spring; twenty-eight grandchilren; and twenty-three great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Roman Ortega, Chris Viasana, Raymond Ortega, Rocky Ortega, Erick Viasana, and Anthony Ortega. The family suggests memorials be made to: Northside United Methodist Church, 507 NE 6th, Big Spring, Texas 79720. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.God looked around his gardenAnd he found an empty place.He then looked down uponThis earth & saw your tired face.He put his arms around youand lifted you to rest.God's garden must be beautiful,He always takes the best.He knew that you were suffering;He knew you were in pain.He knew that you would neverGet well on earth again.So He closed your weary eyelidsAnd whispered,,
