Obituary: Victor Manuel ‘Coco’ Ortiz Jr., 36, Of Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): Victor Manuel “Coco” Ortiz Jr. was born on February 4, 1986, in Meriden to Liset Rodriguez and the late Victor Manuel Ortiz. He was the oldest of 3 siblings.

Coco graduated from Wilcox Technical High School in 2004. His passion and love for basketball followed him during all 4 years of high school. He was seen by many of his teammates as their "Superstar." While he was one of the shortest on the team, that did not stop him from scoring an average of 20 points. His love for the game began at an early age and he patiently took the time to teach his younger brother and cousins how to play. They in turn also have a love for the game and fonds memories of playing with him. His favorite basketball team growing up was the Chicago Bulls.

Coco was considered to be a workaholic. He was employed at ServePro (Meriden and Orange locations) for over 10 years where he was a Crew Chief. He was respected and loved by his coworkers who looked up to him for his work ethics.

Coco was known to be silly at times, friendly, loving, very humble and had a heart of gold. Above all he was an awesome father, great son and caring brother.

In addition to his mother, Liset Colon he is survived by his stepfather, Herris Aviles, son, Ayden Manuel Ortiz, stepchildren: Elizabeth Marte, Oseas Roman, Jaysa & Jaivy Cruz and step-grandchildren: Gabriel, Genevee, Geremiah and Hezekiah; sister, Merida Ortiz (niece, Erieliz and nephew, Eric Manuel) and brother, David Manuel Ortiz both of Meriden; uncles, José A. Jr. and Edward Rodriguez; aunt, Maritza Pagan all of Meriden, along with many, many cousins, family and friends who will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by both his maternal grandparents, Jose Antonio Sr. and Merida Rodriguez and his paternal grandparents, Ramon Pagan and Petra Santana.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.