Stephen R. Ortiz

Stephen Rounnell Ortiz (Monwa), 73, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife and family.

Stephen was born on September 28, 1951, in Topeka, Kansas, to Eleodoro Jesus Ortiz and Laura Mae M'Jessepe-Ortiz. On February 10, 1973, he married Dolores (Garcia) Ortiz in Lawrence, Kansas.

A proud graduate of Topeka High School, Stephen went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from Washburn University. At just 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving from July 1969 to July 1971, and was honored as Marine of the Month at Camp Pendleton. He later continued his service in the United States Army Reserves with the 410th Evacuation Hospital from November 1974 to November 1977.

Stephen was a dedicated professional and public servant. His career included roles at Kansas Power & Light, IBM’s General Systems Division—where he served as Area Director—and Hallmark Cards.

He was honored to serve his community and heritage through leadership roles in the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, where he was elected Tribal Secretary and later Tribal Chairman.

Stephen was a proud member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and We-Ta-Se American Legion Post 410. He was also a faithful member of St. John’s Evangelical Church.

He found deep joy in hunting and fishing with his father, sons, and uncles, but his greatest joy was his family—especially his cherished granddaughter.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Dolores; two sons, Stephen E. (Jacque) Ortiz and Dominic R. (Tamera) Ortiz; and his granddaughter, Ryder G. Ortiz.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans Administration and Midland Hospice of Topeka for their compassionate care and support.

Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025 at St. John Catholic Church in Lawrence. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence with the visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m.

The family suggests memorials in Stephen’s name to ALS or PVA and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary 120 W. 13th St. Lawrence, KS 66044.