Daniel Cortez

Daniel Cortez, 96, of Artesia, New Mexico passed away on June 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 21, 1927, in Presidio, Texas, Daniel was the beloved son of Mauro Pina Cortez and Maria Heredia Ornelas Cortez. Daniel was married to the love of his life, Maria Granado Cortez, for fifty years until her passing. The youngest of thirteen, he was preceded in death by his siblings: Agapito Cortez, Estefanía Cortez, Mercedes Garcia, Cruz Marquez, Paula Cortez, Andres Cortez, Eduardo Cortez, Francisca Saiz, Juan Cortez, Mauro Cortez, Refugio Cervantez and Crespin Lara.

Daniel proudly served his country as a US Army WWII veteran, serving in Korea and Okinawa, Japan. He was awarded the WWII Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. He was honored to be chosen as part of the South Plains Honor Flight to Washington, DC.

He pursued his education late in life, earning a GED. Daniel worked tirelessly as an oil field worker for Kersey & Company in Artesia, then serving as a civil engineer for the Bureau of Land Management until his retirement. Daniel's hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing, camping, and spending time with his family playing cards and board games.

Daniel is survived by his children: RoseMary and spouse Luis Cardenas of Lubbock, Texas, Sylvia Cortez Lopez of Artesia, Danny Cortez of Lubbock, Texas, Bobby and spouse Olga Cortez of Artesia, and Freddy and spouse George Cortez of Phoenix, Arizona. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Daniel's life was a testament to dedication, love, and resilience. He will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Services for Daniel will be held on Wednesday, June 19th, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. Rosary will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately after Mass at Woodbine Cemetery. Everyone is invited to join the family for a meal at Lady of Grace Church Hall to celebrate Daniel's life and legacy following interment.