*ATTENTION*
Memorial Service location has changed to the Coca-Cola Bricktown Events Center 11AM Tuesday

Fred "Freddie" Cortez passed away Jan. 5, 2011. He was born Dec. 29, 1940 in Seminole, OK to Joe & Polly Cortez.

A one of a kind, fun loving, charismatic, practical joker, phenomenal story teller, hard headed, stubborn, LOVING Papa, Dad, Brother, Uncle and friend, a few words that could be used to describe Fred Cortez. However, even when you string all those together they fall short in describing the man himself. To add a few more, successful and respected business man, provider to many, protector, teacher, irreplaceable and cherished friend, avid hunter and fisherman, a man who never accepted "you can't" or believed in giving in, a true fighter with an un-shakeable will and constitution. Again, the words still fail to capture the person he was, which is what made him a truly unique individual. He had a contagious love of life and lived it to the fullest, refusing to let illness keep him down. His body wore out, but never did his mind or spirit. He was blessed with numerous gifts and talents and wore many hats in life for which he was admired. He was legendary in the club and music industry. He was a legend to his grandkids as well in a much different and special way. He was a dedicated, devoted, doting, loving "Papa". His love, concern and desire to watch the kids grow up was one of the driving forces in his fight for life. Although very successful and with numerous accomplishments, one of his proudest moments was when his oldest grandson was asked to write an essay in school about who he thought of as a hero and he chose to write about "My Best Friend, My Papa". He was truly loved by so many. Although the loss is devastating we are comforted by the love and support offered by so many. Every family is thought of, remembered and supported at times like this. My father built loving, lasting friendships that spanned decades. As a family, we know this loss is just as heartfelt for those who loved and cared for him just as we did. To you, we are thankful dear friends for your years of love and devotion. Remember the joy and laughs he brought to you and please know or hearts will be forever grateful for all the love and laughs you shared with him. We would also like to say a very special and heartfelt thanks to Dr. Abby Bova for all the care, concern and love exhibited while caring for my Dad. Fred was preceded in death by his parents, 2 Brothers, Joe and Jimmy Cortez; 2 sisters, Ruth and Mary; He is survived by his daughters: Kelle Rutz & husband, Heath and Elaina Cortez & husband Michael, Archdeacon; son, Tony Cortez & wife, Krista; brothers: John Cortez & wife, Toni and Kevin Cortez; Sisters: Betty Vasquez & husband, Simon, Betty Ann Vaut, Pauline Wells & husband, Stan & Rose Easley. Grandchildren: Lucia & Brogan Rutz and Bella & Priya Cortez-Archdeacon, as well other extended family.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.