Antonio Marcos Ortiz
April 6, 1954 - November 5, 2022
Antonio Marcos Ortiz, passed away unexpectedly on November 5, 2022. Our hearts are broken to lose our beloved husband, father, and friend to so many.
Marcos was born on April 6, 1954, in Lovell Wyoming. He was the youngest of 11 children born to immigrant parents who built a beautiful family and home filled with love.
His broadcasting career began when he was only a teenager as a sports announcer in the 1980s in Blythe, California. Marcos’ dream was to work in television, and he worked his way back to Wyoming where he got his first break as a TV news journalist. His career spanned decades, working in Cheyenne, Albuquerque, then Salt Lake City where he spent the past 18 years at KTVX television, working as a courts and crime reporter. He was a staunch champion of the underserved and the voiceless and worked tirelessly to find answers to complex criminal cases. He never shied away from the truth and advocated for victims of crime in the community
through his talents as a reporter and storyteller.
It was during his time working as a reporter in Wyoming where
a young woman named Sandy Olney caught his eye. They dated briefly before Sandy relocated to Albuquerque for a job in TV. Not one to let a good thing slip away, Marcos soon found a job at the same TV station. He and Sandy reconnected and eventually married in Santa Fe, New Mexico on October 15, 1988.
While many knew Marcos because of his remarkable career, it was loving and caring for his family that was his true passion. During their 34 years of marriage, Marcos and Sandy were always devoted to each other, and never went to bed without saying “I love you.” They did everything together and especially loved sports. Marcos was a lifelong Yankees baseball fan and he and Sandy never missed an opportunity to see a major league game when they traveled.
In 1995, he and Sandy were overjoyed to welcome their daughter Olivia into the world. He was a doting father who was deeply involved in Olivia’s life. Marcos was actively involved in Olivia’s schooling and often served as her coach on the numerous sports teams she played on. He was proud to watch her grow into a remarkable young woman. Her graduation from law school was an incredible source of pride for Marcos.
He was the solid foundation on which his family was built, and he provided a safe and loving home. Marcos was a talented gardener and created a sanctuary in the back yard of his home, a beautiful and peaceful retreat for his family. He was handy and worked on many home projects over the years, including outdoor light displays during the Christmas season that were admired by everyone who saw them. He loved politics, was an avid reader, and he doted on the family pet Franklin. Marcos was devoted to his Catholic faith, serving as a lector and minister. His faith never faltered, and it guided him throughout his life and career.
Marcos is preceded in death by his parents Severiana Contreras and Concepcion Ortiz, along with siblings Margarita Espinoza, Julie Alvarez, Lucie Escalante, Socorro Sarah Ortiz, and Rufina Montanez.
He is survived by his wife Sandra, daughter Olivia, siblings Inez (Milton) Ontiveroz, Guadalupe Hernandez, Mary (John) Alvarez, Kahn Ortiz, and Cathy Ortiz.
Friends are invited to visit with his family on Thursday, November 10, 2022 from 7:00 until 9:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking on the north side of our home. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 11, 2022 at 11:00 am at St. John the Baptist Church, 300 East 11800 South, Draper.
Donations in Marcos’ honor may be made to the Catholic Community Services of Utah.
In Loving Memory
Mr. Ortiz was a man that was not to be stopped when it comes to revealing the truth. He did a thorough investigation into my 10 years of hell the West Valley Police, S.L.D.A. subjected me to. When he made numerous attempts to interview all of them, they refused to be interviewed. At our first meeting, Mr. Ortiz was totally surprised at the evidence I gave him, he told me he had never seen that much evidence. His investigation was very indepth and revealing on just how both the police and Salt Lake District Attorney we conducting illegal actions against citizens. When Mr. Ortiz finally was prepared to put the story on his "The Justice Files" he contacted me, informed me. His investigation was truly revealing. I recorded the televised segment and still review it to this very day. I live in Sandy and would periodically see him shopping in the Walmart in Sandy. We would converse briefly. Mr. Ortiz was an investigative reporter that was not to be denied, he would find the truth and reveal it. My very deepest sympathy goes to the family. Mr. Ortiz has now "GONE HOME", that said I close with prayers and best regards........GODSPEED
My deepest sympathy to Sandy, Olivia and all of Marco's family. I met Marcos in the 80s and he helped me put togther a grand press conference at the Capital. It set a new era of education across the State. Not only did it change my life, it saved hundreds of lives. I became the Domestic Violence Prevention Director under former Attorney General Jan Graham. We educated 1/2 million Utahns. Since then I have been involved in so many criminal justice issues, including local, State and Federal laws. I will forever be grateful to Marcos for all the great things he has done in this world to help victims of crime. I will miss him. I'm so glad that as President of Centro Civico Mexicano, we were able to recognize him with an Ignacio Zaragoza Lifetime Achievement Award at our Cinco de Mayo Celebration in May of 2022. Rest in Peace my friend and mentor.
Sandy and Olivia, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Marcos as a great father and a loving husband, as well as a hard-working and talented journalist. I will never forget visiting your home not long after you had first bought it (before Olivia came along.) Marcos had completely finished the basement on his own and it was beautiful. He was never one to brag. He just did amazing things without any fanfare. Sandy, your beautiful and brilliant daughter is a living testament to your and Marcos' love. I know both you and Olivia will be comforted by your faith in God during this sad time, as well as through the love and support of your many friends and family. With love, your friend, Priscilla
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Marcos. I admired his faith and devotion to family and career. May he rest in peace. Sandy and Olivia, you are in my prayers. Sister Karla
I never met Marco. Maybe it's because he's been such a familiar face for so many years or maybe it's because I lost my sweetheart a month ago but his passing hit too close to home for someone I didn't know. Maybe I did know him but I can say his news stories have been a highlight of the station's programming. I for one will miss them.
To the Ortiz Family. I only know Marcos as a fellow citizen. He was always a well known favorite and great pillar in the community. He will be greatly missed. He is a reminder of what we all strive to be. He always presented with great grace and integrity. Our family is shocked and we send all of you many blessings in this difficult time.
Dear Ortiz Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of working with Marcos on many news stories through the years. He had a gentle manner, but a fierce commitment to the truth and getting the story right. His dedication to quality journalism made our community better. The only time I saw a hint of pride in Marcos was when he talked about you, Olivia. He was so proud of you. Please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. Jeff
Olivia I am so so sorry to hear of your loss. It is very difficult to lose a parent, especially one you are close to. I hope my prayers help give comfort to you. Coach Miyazaki
I am so very sad to hear this devastating news. Sandy, you and Olivia are in my thoughts & prayers. Sending all our love�� Nancy & Casey
In Loving Memory
