John Julius Ortenzo, 69, of Chesapeake Beach passed away September 14, 2014 at his residence. John was born January 2, 1945 in Washington, D.C. to John William and Helen Marie (Hicks) Ortenzo.

He was raised in southeast D.C. and attended public school, graduating from Ballou High School in 1963. He served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967 and served in Vietnam during that time.

John married Wilma Jean Rife in July of 1968 and they made their home in Virginia before moving to Chesapeake Beach in 1976.

John was employed as a grocery store clerk for Safeway, retiring after 35 years. In his leisure time John enjoyed fishing and camping.

John is survived by his wife Wilma Jean Ortenzo of Chesapeake Beach; sons John William Ortenzo and his wife Michelle of St. Leonard, MD and Joseph Michael Ortenzo and his wife Brigette of North Beach, MD; grandchildren Antoinette E. and Zachary W. Ortenzo of St. Leonard, MD and Rebecca N., Ryan J., and Cody E. Ortenzo of North Beach, MD. Also surviving are sisters Tere Burch of Clinton, MD, Marsha Fitzmaurice of Accokeek, MD, and Janice Spires of West Virginia; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements provided by Rausch Funeral Home.