Elton-A Memorial Mass honoring Donald Ray Ortego, 92, will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 1 o'clock p.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church in Elton. Rev. Fr. Jose Vattakunnel will officiate. Inurnment will be held at St. Paul Cemetery immediately following Donald's services.

Donald's family will receive visitors at St. Paul Catholic Church in Elton on Thursday, October 19, 2023, for 11 o'clock a.m. until time of service. All arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Home of Kinder.

Donald was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all who knew him. He loved to hunt, fish, and have big gathering with his family at his home. He loved to cook and loved to see people eat, laugh, and have a good time. He loved his garden and fig trees and loved canning okra and figs. He enjoyed camping but especially napping. In Donald's world 2 o'clock was coffee time and 5 o'clock was time for a cold drink. Donald and Jewel's home was always open to family and friends. Donald and Jewel loved and adored their grandchildren dearly and cherished every moment spent with them.  He also loved to speak French and knew how to speak it well. Donald will always live in our hearts with a lot of fond memories.

Those left to cherish Donald's memory include his wife Jewel Lane Young Ortego of Elton; three sons, Donald Ortego Jr. and wife Donna, Micheal Glenn, and Randall J. Ortego; one daughter, Jennifer J. Privat and husband Joey; a host of siblings including brothers and sisters; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony, and Edna Ortego; one daughter, Cheryl Ortego; brothers and sisters; and one grandson, Mason Ortego.

Condolences and words of comfort may be expressed to the family at www.ardoinfuneralhome.com or our Facebook page at Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Homes.