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MANUEL “MANNY” ORTIZ Manuel AKA “Manny” Ortiz Born in Brooklyn New York, raised in Pennsylvania and then relocated to Rochester New York at a young age, Manuel Ortiz younger years as a youth consisted of learning to play two instruments. He learned how to play the drums and also the trumpet. He performed for church ceremonies and joined in many parades. He was always full of great spirit. Growing up he was always volunteering for something or helping someone out. When he transitioned to high school he again enjoyed playing his instruments but instead of playing sports like some of his friends, he took up wood shop and mechanics as he always enjoyed hands on activities. In his junior year, whil being raised by a single mom, Manny wanted to work and help her out. So, he picked up a job delivering newspapers and worked at a retail store (McCrory’s) in downtown Rochester after school. When Manny graduated, like many, college was not an option as his 34
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family with a newborn (his first born daughter –Solangee) had just begun. Manny began to work to provide for his family and landed a job in construction. There he would learn to drywall, paint and build up his skills in flooring and decorating. Manny’s homes were always neatly painted and decorated.
However, during this time Manny knew something was missing, Manny realized that he wanted to do more than just trade skilled jobs. Ortiz wanted to do work for the people and the community and was persistant in becoming a Rochester police officer.
It took more than a few attempts for Manny to finally become the Police Officer he desired to be, but he was persistent in taking the test every time it was offered. Once Ortiz was able to achieve the role as a police officer, he made every stride to become the “Peoples Cop”. Manny’s job to serve the community was his passion from the minute he got up every morning. He just didn’t wake up to arrest criminals, but he tried to advise them and see what he could do to help them out so this would not have to happen to them again. As Manny would walk through the community he would walk up to people or people would walk up to him shake his hand and thank him for his service. He made many connections and gave many advice. Every time Manny received a call for service he would always answer that call as if it was a family member or his best friend. He always treated everyone as a priority and never treated anyone any different. Everyone mattered to Manny. He would always follow
