Dana Ortego

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His love of family, the outdoors, good food, and LSU made for a life filled with treasured memories and traditions.

Dana Ortego, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. He was born on September 28, 1971, in Eunice, La. 

Dana’s legacy is one woven from countless moments of kindness, support, and deep connection with those who were fortunate to know him. Above all, Dana cherished his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Suzanne Guillory Ortego, whose love and companionship were the foundation of his life. The couple had just celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary together, a milestone that reflected the deep love and commitment they shared. Dana treasured Suzanne and lovingly cared for her.

Cherishing his memory are his three children: his son, Mason Ortego (Kaylor Baird); his two daughters, Megan Ortego (Shane Picard), and Kaitlin Miller (Garrett).

Dana’s life was further blessed by the love and laughter of his grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his heart. He adored every one of them and embraced his role as "PawPaw" with boundless love and enthusiasm. Whether he was playing with them, making them laugh, or simply spending time by their side, those moments were among his greatest treasures. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Evie Picard, Norah Picard, Finley Picard, Audree Miller, Maverick Miller, Mallorie Miller, and a grandson on the way, Mason Kyle Ortego, Jr. He also cherished his step-grandchildren, Hunter Marceaux, Bailey Marceaux, and Coleson Baird, loving them as his own. Dana took great pride in watching each of them grow and looked forward with excitement to welcoming his newest grandson. The memories they shared and the love he gave so freely will remain in their hearts forever.

He is also survived by his brothers, Neil Ortego (Rachel), Glen Ortego (Vickie), and Gary Ortego (Liz), whose close bonds with Dana were lifelong sources of support and camaraderie.

Dana’s loved ones hold close the memories of family members who preceded him in death, including his dear grandchildren, Burton Picard and Maya Ortego, and his parents, Joseph Burton Ortego and Aseline Georgia Fontenot Ortego. Their legacies, traditions, and love remained ever-present in Dana’s heart.

Dana found great joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved spending time fishing as well as preparing meals for the people he loved. A devoted fan of LSU athletics, Dana could always be found cheering on the Tigers with unwavering pride and enthusiasm. His love of family, the outdoors, good food, and LSU made for a life filled with treasured memories and traditions that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Family and friends will gather to honor Dana’s life with visitation on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM at Quirk & Son Funeral Home, 121 S 6th St, Eunice. There will be an additional visitation on Saturday, July 4, from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1154 Academy Dr, Eunice, followed by funeral services at 10:00 AM at the same location. He will be laid to rest at Pilgrim Rest Cemetery, 1140 Academy Road, Eunice, Louisiana.

Dana Ortego’s unexpected departure has left a void in the lives of those who loved him. In their grief, his family and friends will continue to honor his memory, cherishing the love, example, and enduring bonds he fostered throughout his life.