JORGE ENRIQUE ORDONEZ

1935-2017

Jorge Enrique Ordóñez, 82, of Imperial Beach,CA passed away on Oct.16, 2017 from dementia at UCSD Hillcrest Hospital with his wife by his side.

Jorge was born on April 1, 1935 in Parita, Panamá. He was one of four sons and three daughters born to Isabel Mejía and Manuel Ordoñez.

Jorge studied political science at Loyola College, and played for the school soccer team, then earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology and counseling. Jorge met the love of his life, Jean Kavanagh in the college library, and they were married in Baltimore on April 10, 1966. The have four children - Sergio, Sarita, Gabriel and Lisa.

Jorge and his family returned to Panama when he received a USAID grant to improve the education system. In 1976, Jorge packed his family into a station wagon and drove through Central America to Houston, TX. He earned a Ph.D in clinical psychology and eventually became Director of Clinical Psychology at Harris County Juvenile Detention Center, where he worked for 30 years. Jorge testified for the juveniles in court, and appeared on “Good Morning Houston” to educate the public about kids in trouble.

Jorge also brought his passion for soccer to Houston. He coached his children in soccer, and started the Blue Star Soccer League. Jorge also made life-long friends refereeing soccer games. He became a Texas state assessor of referees.

Jorge retired in 2005 and moved with Jean to Imperial Beach, CA when their first grandchild was born. They have six grandchildren: Maya, Lucas, Safiya, Jonah, Noemi and Sidney.

To all who knew Jorge one sentiment rings true: Jorge helped each and every one in any way he could. His funny sayings and great dancing will be missed by all.

Services will be held on Oct. 23, 2017 in the Chapel at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in San Diego, CA at 10:00 a.m. Reception at 12:30 p.m. at 168 Elm Ave in Imperial Beach, CA. Flowers can be sent to Community Mortuary, 855 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911. Donations to Alzheimer’s San Diego, http:// www. alz sd, are also appreciated.