Joseph Mortz's Memorial

Submitted By: Monica Stutzman

Candles Lit: 310

About Joseph Mortz

Joseph Paul Mortz passed away July 2, 2012 at home, Ukiah, CA. He was born August 26, 1946 in Los Angeles, CA, the fourth of seven children to Charles and Kathryn Tunney Mortz.

Joe is survived by his son, Carlos Lopez, and siblings Herb (Patricia), Margaret, Mary, Frank, and Monica; numerous nephews and nieces, and one cousin. His predeceased family includes his parents, his brother John, and a cousin. Joe’s greatest joy was his son Carlos who he said was “the best thing that ever happened to me.”
Joe was very active, both in work and volunteering, for social justice, gay rights movement, and later, as an educator and school counselor. He worked for numerous non-profits, promoting community food programs, health and mental health organizations, and recovery organizations. He had a fierce motivation to fight for our society’s underserved, overlooked populations. Joe earned credentials in School Management Administration and Pupil Personnel Services School Counseling. He earned a MA in Education, Counseling and School Psychology. He was a member of the Mental Health Advisory Board of Mendocino County and a member of the California Mental Health Planning Council. Joe was a US Army Veteran, Vietnam-era, stationed in South Korea.
Much of Joe’s life can be summarized in his quote: “A personal effort … to keep contact with friends and family; and, to promote social justice for health reform, education, parenting and civil rights and a more perfect world". There are no services planned at this time. Remembrances in his name may be made to your favorite charity.