Damaso Ortiz Melendez

Damaso Ortiz-Melendez, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and talented barber with a heart of gold, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at 93. Born and raised in Ponce Puerto Rico, Damaso built a life defined by generosity and compassion for others. He was known for his warm spirit and willingness to help anyone in need, always ready to give the shirt off his back.

Damaso was a cherished barber in his Delaware community, where he spent decades cutting hair and sharing laughter with his clients, colleagues, and friends. His chair was a place of connection, and his welcoming nature made everyone feel like family.

He leaves behind his siblings in Ponce Puerto Rico, who will forever cherish his memory, his three children: Don Ortiz, Lewis Ortiz, Danielle Burkman, and grandchildren. Damaso's legacy of love, humility, and hard work will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Though he is no longer with us, his kindness, grace and the joy he brought into the lives of others will never be forgotten.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas on Saturday, November 2, 2024 @ 12:30 pm. Location: 3720 W. Thomas Road, Avondale, AZ 85392