Maria Teresa Ortega

Our beloved Mama Tere (Maria Teresa) took her last breath on Thursday, January 25th at 10:51 AM at the age of 95. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by the people she loved the most, her daughter, Indiana; and her grandchildren, Judith, Jackeline, and Jacob. She will be dearly remembered by friends and family all over the world, including Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Germany, Spain, Puerto Rico, Canada, and the U.S.

Mama Tere’s life is a story of love, family, strength, and resilience. Throughout her life, she took care of her own grandmother, her mother, and her two brothers. She got married at 35 and loved her husband, Roberto, until her very last breath. She survived and carried her family through the most difficult moments, including a tragic car accident, 2 earthquakes, several hurricanes, and through times of extreme poverty and hardship resulting from the continued civil wars in Nicaragua. Even then, she remained strong and never missed the opportunity to cook Christmas dinner, birthday dinners, and spend time with her family.  She was the strongest of the family. She was our rock.

Mama Tere was not only strong and resilient, but she was also a classy and elegant lady who valued tradition and integrity. She was always proper, always kind, well educated and well dressed. The type of lady that would never leave her house looking nothing less than presentable, with a bold fragrance and vibrant red lipstick — even at 95 years old. She made sure she taught her daughter and grandchildren good manners and was always the pillar of ethics and righteousness in our family.

Last but not least, Mama Tere had a true and inspiring love for Christ. She was a devoted Catholic her whole life and always stayed true to her faith. She studied theology, never missed Sunday mass or any Catholic holiday celebration. Her faith never waivered. She also gave back to her community and was an honorary donor for the SOS Children’s Village of Nicaragua to whom she contributed for over 40 years.

Mama Tere was a very special person in this world. Always sweet, always loving. She will be forever loved, respected, and deeply missed by many.  

A Funeral Mass will be held at the Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Parish, 1714 14th Avenue NE, Calgary, AB on Tuesday at 5:00 PM, visitation for family, friends, and loved ones to say their final goodbyes will be held from 4:00 – 5:00 PM.