Richard W. "Rick" (Mel) Cortez "Mel", age 71 passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday May 16, 2023.  He was the son of the late Sylvia (Szurszewski) Cortez and the late Melvin Cortez.  Loving husband of the late Eileen L. Cortez who predeceased him in November of 2021.  Loving brother of James, Robert and Christine Cortez, Noreen (Tom) Oliver, and Janet (Tom) Allinder.  Uncle of many loving nieces and nephews. Rick was a loyal member of his church- St. Margaret Mary of Lower Burrell, where he was involved as a Eucharistic Minister.  Rick was a dedicated employee of Diocesan Publications for 36 years administering Catholic Parish bulletins to a multitude of churches across many states over the course of his career.  Rick was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and a beloved member of his Oakmont Coffee Club friends.  He loved to travel, especially with Eileen during their marriage together.  Above all, Rick's life was people, relationships, and spreading God's word in any way he could, and we are all better people having had Rick in our lives.

Friends and relatives will be received at the BURKET-TRUBY FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES, INC. 421 Allegheny Ave. Oakmont, PA 15139 on Sunday, May 21 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Rick on Monday May 22 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, Lower Burrell. Private entombment in Christ Our Redeemer Cemetery where Rick will be reunited with his beloved wife, Eileen.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Kidney Association and American Lung Association.