Michael Anthony Ortega

Michael (Mike) A. Ortega, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and children on February 11, 2026.

Mike was born on June 9, 1961, in Denver, Colorado, to A. Paul and Charlotte (Nelson) Ortega. Mike grew up in Fort Collins and graduated from Poudre High School. He married Jayme Brown in 1980, who preceded him in death, and had one son, Michael L. Ortega. Mike worked for Woodward Governor for a time and then returned to school to earn a bachelor's degree in political science in 1992 from Colorado State University. Mike spent most of his career as an administrative law judge for the Colorado Department of Labor. After retiring in 2016, Mike worked as a drive instructor and tester for Mountain States Drive School, where he enjoyed sharing both driving and life wisdom with his students. Mike was a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe in New Mexico.

Mike and his wife, Betsy, met at CSU and married in 1992. Together, they raised three children—Michael, Alexandria (Allea), and John (Jack) Ortega. Mike was an adoring and loving husband and father. He shared his passion for movies, books, humor, and knowledge with his family.

Mike and Betsy enjoyed many years camping and traveling together with their children and as empty-nesters.

Mike will be most remembered for his kindness, gentleness, humor, and intelligence. He connected easily with everyone, whether at the drive-thru, in the drive car, or sitting across from him in a labor hearing. His humor and easy-going manner made everyone feel accepted and at ease in his presence.

Mike is survived by his wife of 33 years, Betsy Ortega, and their children, Michael L. Ortega of Arvada, CO, Alexandria Ortega of Denver, CO, and John Ortega of Thornton, CO. Mike had one grandchild, Samantha Ortega of Arvada, CO.

Services will be held at the Martin Cemetery in Rinconada, NM, on a date to be determined, and at a celebration of life gathering in Nederland, CO, this summer.