Jose R. "Duke" Ortiz, 75, of Riverview , passed away on Thursday, July 21, 2011 in Tampa. Jose was born on January 23, 1936 in Puerto Rico and was raised in the New York/New Jersey area. After his retirement from American-Express Cheques Division where he worked as a Supervisor, Jose and his wife, Luz moved to Florida in 1999. While in New Jersey, Jose enjoyed umpiring and refereeing games during his spare time for various high school, college and adult sport leagues throughout the area for over 35 years. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge and American Legion before moving to Florida.

Jose is survived by his wife of 53 years, Luz; three sons, Jose Ortiz, Robert Ortiz and John Ortiz; one brother and his sisters; along with 5 grandchildren. He was greatly loved by his family and will be missed.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 23, 2011 between 4-6 PM at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, 6919 Providence Road in Riverview. Another visitation will occur on Monday, July 25 between 2-4PM and then 6-8PM at the funeral home with chapel services to occur on Tuesday, July 26 at 10AM at the Serenity Meadows Funeral Home Chapel. Burial to follow at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park in Riverview.