Sadly, our friend Walter passed away on the evening February 23rd after a courageous battle against esophageal cancer. Walter leaves behind his wife, Ingris, and son Eliel, as well as his beloved companion, Millie the dog.

Over the last year, Walter went through chemotherapy, radiation, a surgery that shortened his esophagus, and immunotherapy. Throughout this time, Walter had an unwavering positivity and will to live.

Walter has been unable to work consistently over the past year. Ingris has also had to stop working in order to care for Walter. The past year has been extremely difficult both emotionally and financially for the Ortega family. We are asking for funds to support with the costs of a funeral and also to make sure that Eliel and Ingris are taken care of during this time. Any donation, no matter how small, will be incredibly impactful for this family.

We will always remember Walter for his incredible positivity, jovial nature, and ability to connect with everyone he met. Walter is seen all throughout the city of New Orleans in the houses that he helped restore in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Ida. We will miss you, Walter! You were one of a kind.