Luis Samuel Ortiz died at his residence in Garrett, Indiana, on January 8, 2026, at fifty-three years of age. He was born on January 25, 1972, in Havana, Cuba, to Pedro Orlando Ortiz and Arabia Megret Matenzo.
His early life involved significant transition; he emigrated from Havana to Miami in 1980 at age eight, later resided in New Jersey, and ultimately established his life in Northern Indiana. This trajectory fostered a character marked by constancy, resilience, and understated cordiality.
His familial relationships were paramount. He was a committed father to his four children: Brianna (partner Gideon Williams), Nicholas, Vanessa, and Veronica, whose development provided him profound satisfaction. He shared a close affiliation with his sister, Evelyn (spouse Juan Carlos Rogas). He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Pedro Pablo Ortiz, losses that intensified his dedication to surviving kin.
Vocational stability was a consistent feature of his life. He spent the majority of his career as a CNC machinist, cultivating precision in various regional workshops. For the preceding five years, he worked as a server at Lalos Restaurante in Garrett, where his amiable demeanor and attentive service endeared him to patrons, making the role a personally fulfilling endeavor.
He possessed several personal aptitudes and interests. He was a skilled draftsman, producing evocative sketches with economical line work. Music was a significant source of enjoyment and reflection. He appreciated extended walks and engaged earnestly with the game Candy Crush, pursuits that contributed to a contented and unhurried personal life.
His absence will be felt by colleagues at the restaurant and, most acutely, by his family, who will cherish recollections of his humor, narratives, and attentive presence. He conducted his life with benevolence and sincerity, leaving a legacy of affirmative impressions.
Services were conducted privately per the family’s wishes. Those inclined to offer a tribute may direct contributions to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1901 Dowling Street in Kendallville, Indiana. Arrangements were managed by Sheets and Childs Funeral Home. His artistic output, musical appreciation, and paternal devotion endure in memory. He is remembered as a man of integrity whose life, though concluded prematurely, leaves a lasting resonance.