In Loving Memory of Sotero (Chach) Ortega Jr.
Sotero (Chach) Ortega Jr, age 77, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025. Born on January 14, 1948, in Saginaw, Michigan, Sotero lived a life marked by compassion, curiosity, and service.
Sotero’s journey was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, adventure, and generosity. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and extended his spirit of service through the Peace Corps, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. His heart was as expansive as his intellect, and his kindness left a lasting imprint on everyone he met.
Sotero earned his Bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and dedicated his professional life to the Photo Marketing Association, where he played a pivotal role in developing and maintaining the PMA website. He also volunteered to write articles and take pictures for El Renacimiento, a bilingual Mexican American newspaper in Lansing MI. His passion for photography and computers was not just a hobby—it was a reflection of his creative soul and technical brilliance.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Yolanda; daughters, Renee L. Guerrero, Kristy Guerrero-Taylor, and Andrea Palmer; step-sons, Yul and Joe Alvarado; sisters, Susie Gilbert, Benita Garcia and Carmen Ramirez; brother, Pete Ortega. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Joe Valdez Jr., Elvira Castillo, Delores Ortega, and Luis Ortega, and step-daughter, Rosario Vachier.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate team at Corewell Health Hospice for their extraordinary care during Sotero’s final days. Special thanks also go to the staff at Quincy Place Senior Living, whose love and attention enriched Sotero’s life over the past 16 months.
Services
• Visitation: Sunday, August 17, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dykstra Funeral Home – Northwood Chapel.
295 Douglas Ave, Holland, MI 49424
Interment: Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM
Great Lakes National Cemetery
4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI 48442
Sotero’s legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering service will continue to inspire all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.
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