George Q. Ortiz: 1948 – 2024
George Q. Ortiz, a man of few words but a big heart, passed away on May 7, 2024, in his hometown of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Born on August 18, 1948, George was a beloved husband, father, and brother whose presence will be deeply missed.
George dedicated his career to serving as a signalman for the Union Pacific Railroad. His commitment to his work was only rivaled by his dedication to his family. George’s quiet demeanor often belied the immense compassion and care he held for others. He cherished his nieces and nephews, always offering unwavering support and love to each of them.
A graduate of Cheyenne Central High School, he had a great passion for learning and knowledge. George’s compassionate nature extended beyond his family; he was known for lending a helping hand to those in need without seeking recognition, and leaving a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In addition to his work and family life, George’s passion for photography earned him the nickname “the cameraman,” capturing moments that would later turn into timeless memories for his family and friends to treasure. He also enjoyed collecting diecast cars and books, showcasing his attention to detail and love for preserving memories. He also found great joy in listening to good jazz music. While living in California, George had the opportunity to interview many different music groups the likes of Earth, Wind and Fire, The Commodores and Lionel Richie with NPR Broadcasting.
George’s proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Valdez-Ortiz; his daughter, Carly Cosand; son-in-law, Nicholas Cosand; and fur babies, Oliver and Diesel; as well as his siblings.
He is preceded in death by his father, Manuel Ortiz; mother, Petra Ortiz; and his brothers, Mike and Tim.
George leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and love that will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
As we mourn the loss of George Q. Ortiz, may we find solace in the memories we shared with him and carry forward the values he embodied throughout his life. May he rest in peace knowing that he touched the lives of many with his warmth and genuine kindness.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the St. Joseph’s food bank.
Cedric Odell Raine: 1982 – 2024
Cedric Odell Raine, a loving son, devoted father, hardworking individual, and compassionate friend, passed away on May 4, 2024, in Cheyenne Wyoming. He was born on July 27, 1982, in Gillette Wyoming. Cedric’s life was a testament to resilience, determination, and generosity.
After graduating from Westwood high school in 2000, Cedric faced challenges but emerged stronger than ever. He spent time at the Honor Conservation Camp and the Wyoming Honor Farm where he not only learned valuable skills but also discovered his love for animals while training wild horses. Gardening became another passion of his during his time there. With a desire for a fresh start, Cedric eventually settled in Sheridan, Wyoming.
Cedric’s career was diverse and impressive. From drilling wells for water, methane, and uranium to managing a crew of welders at a local company, his work ethic and dedication shone through in everything he did. In recent years, he even started his own successful trucking business.
His daughter, Cybil Marie, was the light of his life, and Cedric’s proudest accomplishments revolved around her – from teaching her to ride a bike to French braiding her hair with care and cooking her favorite meals. He was an exceptionally caring father who always put Cybil’s needs above everything else.
Cedric’s magnetic personality and big heart touched everyone around him. Despite his tough exterior, he was always willing to lend a helping hand or share a kind word. He enjoyed working on mechanical projects including cars, motorcycles, chainsaws, and more. Golfing, watching Chicago Cubs and Bears games, riding bikes, dirt bikes, street bikes, and many other outdoor activities brought him joy.
Tragically, Cedric passed away while swimming with Cybil Marie – one of their favorite father-daughter activities. His memory will live on through the special moments shared with each member of his family – from being a caregiver to his mother, Peggy; to sharing interests with siblings, Chad, Aimee Tow, Jon Raine, Eric and Jessi Raine; as well as with nephews and nieces, Logan Tow, Slade and Cortney Raine, Cyrus Raine, Isaac Raine, and Jocey Raine.
In addition to his surviving family members mentioned above, including Cybil Marie Raine (daughter); may Cedric Odell Raine be reunited with Joseph Cedric Raine (father); Cedric Clarence Raine (paternal grandfather); Gladys Viola Raine (paternal grandmother); Arvid Odell Svennes (maternal grandfather); and Phyllis Darlene Svennes (maternal grandmother in eternal peace.
Cedric’s legacy of hard work and unconditional love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Celebration of life will be held at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Gillette Wyoming, May 22nd at 10:00 a.m.
Jarrod Mykal Rivera: 1989 – 2024
Jarrod Mykal Rivera (J-Mike) will always be remembered for the way he could walk into a room and light it up with his smile. The way he could approach anyone and make you feel at ease and make you smile just by seeing his, is unforgettable. Everyone who knows Jarrod can tell you how much he loved the lord, and how devoted to the faith he was. If you were ever driving with him and passed a church or cemetery, you already knew that he was going to offer prayers and make the sign of the cross multiple times. Charity was his biggest attribute, but more on that later.
Jarrod was born in Cheyenne, Wyoming on April 17, 1989 to Tom and Mary Lou Rivera. He was the third born and the baby. His older brothers are Thomas Rivera III and Phillip Rivera. His family, with fiancé Jessica Boyd, consists of Gabriel, Vivianna, Drake, and Brooklynn. Included among his loved ones are his best friends, Dominick Espinoza, Jordan Williams, and Daniel Saur. Jarrod was preceded in death by his grandparents, Adelaido and Eda Cisneros; and Tom Rivera Sr. and Mary Rivera.
Jarrod’s heart and spirit of charity are some of the most undeniable traits that defined him. There are so many times Jarrod would work all day, and then spend every last dime that evening to take you to dinner and make you have a great time. For Jarrod, money was only as valuable as it could help create memories and happy times. He didn’t worry about the future, he was concerned with the present and making people happy in the moment. Jarrod’s authenticity spread not only through Cheyenne, but while playing Call of Duty online, he also forged friendships with gamers from around the U.S. including Billy Cardenas Cadena, Aaron Parris, and so many others.
Jarrod loved to play pool and the trophies he won speaks volumes about that. He was so proud to learn to play pool with his father, and just as proud to teach his son Gabriel as well. Jarrod has left a mark on everyone’s hearts who spent time with him. His smile and presence will forever be missed. He truly was one of a kind… his mix of humor, caring, faithfulness, loyalty, and joy leaves us all wanting just one more minute with him to soak up his love.
Jarrod, we love you.
Darlyne L Stratch: 1947 – 2024
With hearts bowed in reverence and spirits lifted in gratitude, the family of Darlyne Lynn Stratch (Joines) announces her gentle passage into the arms of the lord on April 4, 2024, in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Born under God’s grace on November 20, 1947, in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Darlyne has been called to her eternal rest at the age of 76.
Darlyne’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering love, respect for all of God’s creation, and the joy she found in the fellowship of her loved ones. In her care, even the smallest of creatures, her cherished pets Puppy, Joey, and Holly, among others and along with raccoons raised in the backyard, found in her a compassionate friend and protector.
As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Darlyne embodied a spirit of unconditional love, always placing her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at the heart of her world and fiercely protecting them. She found great delight in the celebration of life’s milestones, ensuring that each holiday and birthday was instilled with a sense of family and togetherness.
Though her path in life led her to remarry, she maintained a lifelong friendship with her children’s father, showing the depth of her kindness and the breadth of her capacity for forgiveness and friendship.
In her professional life, alongside her husband, Neil, Darlyne’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident as she ventured into owning and managing several successful businesses in Laramie, Wyoming, including hair salons, clothing stores, and a restaurant and bar.
Her work ethic and commitment to her enterprises were matched only by her incredible sense of style, her high class, and her innate ability to create beauty in the world around her, particularly within her home – her beauty was not merely in appearance but shone through her impeccable fashion and the care she took in making her home a sanctuary for all who entered.
Darlyne is preceded in death by her parents, Clint and Hazel Joines; and her first husband, Garland Robert Peel, Jr.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication in her husband, Neil Thoman Stratch; her beloved children: Angela Wendy (Brian) Harvey, Paul Thoman (Ellen) Stratch, Matthew Ray Stratch, Jonathan Cody Peel, and Kelly Nicole Castle; her adoring grandchildren: Torrey Andrew (Heather) Harvey, Faith Trinity Peel, Macey Nicole Castle, Justin and Jennifer Harvey, Christian Borunda, Jordan and McKenzie Stratch; and her cherished great-grandchildren: Rodel and Cash Heavilon, Addie Harvey, Phoenix Munlin, Axel and Aria Harvey, and Lucy Borunda. She is also survived by her caring siblings, Suzanne Armstrong, Dan Joines, and Robyn Barrett.
The service commemorating Darlyne’s life will be held at Wiederspahn Radomsky Chapel Of The Chimes. It is there that her family and friends will gather to pay tribute to a life characterized by hard work, love, and beauty.
Darlyne Lynn Stratch’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and the joy of living. She leaves behind a world more beautiful for her presence and a family grateful for every moment shared with her.
As she enters the gates of eternity, may her soul be embraced by the light of God’s presence, may her memory be cherished as a source of inspiration and comfort, and, in her rest, may she find the peace and glory of eternal life.
