Juan A. Ortega

Juan A. Ortega, age 59 of Kelton, PA, passed away on March 4, 2024.

Born in Jennersville, PA, on May 7, 1964, Juan was the son of Catherine Westley of Kelton, PA, and the late Manuel Ortega of Naranjito, Puerto Rico. He was raised in Kelton and Avondale, PA, and graduated from Avon Grove High School. Later on, he proudly served for four years in the United States Navy as a welder. After his time in the Navy, Juan returned to his family home in Kelton, PA, where he devotedly cared for his elderly grandfather and mother. 

Possessing a smile that spoke volumes, Juan was unique in character and had an impeccable work ethic. To know him was to love him, and those who truly did could not help but love and appreciate him for who he was! He had a passion for sports, travel, and adventure. As a child, Juan was known as the Skateboard King, taking on the S-Bend curve in Avondale. Juan’s infinite love of being outdoors was evident through the copious amount of time he spent engaging in activities such as skiing, boating, camping, hiking, running, mountain biking, and off-roading his Jeep. He delighted in the challenge of trying new things and fully embraced the work it took to improve upon them. Juan not only enjoyed countless hours engaging in these activities with friends and family, but he also loved meeting new people who shared the same interests. 

Juan also had a passion for cars and could often be found “back in the day” at the Cecil County Raceway racing one of his beloved cars. He was most proud of his work restoring a 1985 Nissan 300ZX, which he affectionately referred to as “Babe.” 

Although he had many interests, his love of family was most important to him. He was a beloved son to his 94-year-old mother as well as a beloved brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. The ultimate love he carried was for his daughter.

In addition to his mother, Juan is survived by a daughter, Jazmin Ortega; siblings, Dawn Brock, Jesus M. Ortega, Kendra M. Ortega, Jose M. Ortega, Tracey Bland, Noel Westley, and Troy Westley; and stepmother, Carmen M. Guzman (Kanka). He was predeceased in death by his father, Manuel Ortega, and brother, Jock Lopez Westley.

The family expresses deep gratitude for the support and kindness extended during this difficult time. The inurnment of his cremated remains will be held privately. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Juan’s memory to the National Veterans Foundation (https://nvf.org/veterans-memorials-dedications/).

Friends and family may share condolences at the guestbook link on this memorial page. All are welcome to light a candle in his memory.

"May the light of Juan's memory continue to shine in our hearts."

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Juan A. Ortega, please visit our floral store.