A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 19, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church for Daniel Cortez of Artesia.

Cortez, 96, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Interment will follow the services at Woodbine Cemetery. Afterward, everyone is invited to join the family for a meal in the Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church Hall to celebrate Daniel’s life and legacy.

A rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

Daniel was born July 21, 1927, in Presidio, Texas, the beloved son of Mauro Pina and Maria Heredia (Ornelas) Cortez.

He was married to the love of his life, Maria Granado Cortez, for 50 years until her passing. The youngest of 13, he was preceded in death by his siblings Agapito Cortez, Estefania Cortez, Mercedes Garcia, Cruz Marquez, Paula Cortez, Andres Cortez, Eduardo Cortez, Francisca Saiz, Juan Cortez, Mauro Cortez, Refugio Cervantez and Crespin Lara.

Daniel proudly served his country as a U.S. Army World War II veteran, serving in Korea and Okinawa, Japan. He was awarded the WWII Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. He was honored to be chosen as part of the South Plains Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

He pursued his education late in life, earning a GED. Daniel worked tirelessly as an oilfield worker for Kersey & Company in Artesia, then served as a civil engineer for the Bureau of Land Management until his retirement.

Daniel’s hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing, camping, and spending time with his family playing cards and board games.

Survivors include children RoseMary Cardenas and spouse Luis of Lubbock, Texas, Sylvia Cortez Lopez of Artesia, Danny Cortez of Lubbock, Bobby Cortez and spouse Olga of Artesia, and Freddy Cortez and spouse George of Phoenix, Ariz. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, nine great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Daniel’s life was a testament to dedication, love and resilience. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Terpening & Son Mortuary. Condolences may be expressed online at www.artesiafunerals. com.