Juanita (Juana) Ortega 3/8/40-9/25/19 It was 13 years ago when I first met Juanita (Juana) Ortega upon moving to Worcester Vermont. On crisp fall days, you could hear Juanas beloved dogs barking from across the river, followed by a raspy voice with a distinct New York accent, bellowing for them to quiet down. The kids would yell, "Hi Juana!", and it was always returned with an enthusiastic "Hiiii!" Juana was born in New York City on March 8, 1940, a self-described eccentric. Everyone that knew Juana, could tell you that she was most proud of her distinguished career as a Flamenco dancer. I can imagine from her stories that she was so full of life during those days and she shared that her friends even referred to her as "Juana La Loca" because she was the wild and fun one. Her voice lit up when she talked about her travels and the many friends that she made along the way including fellow dancers and well known Flamenco guitarists. When she wasnt talking about dancing, she reminisced about her days as a first mate on a dive boat, the multiple languages that she learned over the years, including her fluency in Russian, and her love for Buddhism. Juana was a lover and protector of animals. She had 7 dogs when I first met her, and she kept her yard full of bird feeders year-round as she always looked out for the wildlife. When it came to the children in the neighborhood, Juana never let a birthday or holiday go by without recognizing it in a special way. She loved all the kids and always wanted to hear about and celebrate their accomplishments, and they loved her. Juana had a wonderful collection of friends all over central Vermont who she enjoyed chatting with. She also felt great companionship and love from her dogs Bonita, Bubbles, Iggy and Sparky who she leaves behind, and her late dog Chica who passed away just days before Juana. Juana is pre-deceased by her loving nanny Antoinette "Tony", who was like a mother to her. Juana had several step siblings, but it was with gratitude that Juana referred to her Stepsister, Elizabeth Gruber of Beverly Hills California. Other distant friends whom she loved and spoke about often include Christiane Kunzli of Paris, France, Miriam Averill of Villa Hills, Kentucky, and her dear friend of many years, Lois Stange. On Wednesday September 25, 2019 I had the privilege of sitting with my friend and holding her hand, while she passed on to the next life. Juana gifted me with laughter, honesty and a rock-solid friendship for the past 13 years. She will be missed, and I wont soon forget her. Rest in power Juana, te amo! We will be celebrating Juanas life on December 8th, please contact Michelle for more information 223-4206.