Fernando Ortiz Obituary

Fernando Q. Ortiz, of Waverly, Nebraska, was born in Lincoln on March 3, 1939, to Quintin and Eulalia (Perez) Ortiz and passed away on November 20, 2025. He will be remembered for his wisdom, honor, compassion, and deep reverence for the Lord. In a letter he wrote to God, he reflected on a life rich not in money, but in love-"Love for You God, Family, Friends and Life. Please remember me for treating everyone fairly."

Fernando lived a life of service. He proudly served as a paratrooper in the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions and was a graduate of Lincoln High School, where he and his 11 siblings all attended. For more than 50 years, he owned and operated Fernando's Salon in Lincoln's Clocktower, once the largest beauty salon in Nebraska and Iowa, where his warmth touched countless lives.

His faith was central, and he was deeply active at St. Joseph's Church in Greenwood. Together with his beloved wife Elnore, he opened his home and heart to anyone in need, offering food, shelter, and love. Many remember Ferd and Elnore as the parents they never had-or wished they had.

Fernando is survived by his wife, Elnore (Epley) Ortiz; children Tom Ortiz, Tim Ortiz, Teresa (Ortiz) Chaffin (Brian), and Torri (Ortiz) Lienemann (Steve Cantwell); grandchildren Maci & Kale Mueller, Taylon & Brooke Lienemann, Sydni Lienemann, Gabriel Ortiz, Bella & Zemua Baptista, Skylar Lienemann, Elise Chaffin, Camden Chaffin, and Rafiella Ortiz; and six greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Martin, Esteven, and Eva Ortiz; and soninlaw Trevor Lienemann. His family rejoices in knowing he is now in heaven, watching over them with the same love he gave throughout his life.

Services will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church – UNL Newman Center. Rosary at 10:00 a.m., Celebration of Life at 10:30 a.m. Memorials may be made to the Holy Nativity Altar Fund.