Carmela Altman

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carmela Altman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Carmela departed this life on March 26, 2026, at the age of 74, after battling a long-term chronic illness complicated by pneumonia and respiratory failure. She took her final breath in the comforting presence of her family. Born on August 4, 1951, in the town of Elsa, Texas, Carmela was the daughter of Baudelio Cortez and Leonora Hernandez. Her upbringing taught her hard work and family values, which shaped the compassionate and dedicated woman she would become. Carmela was preceded in death by her loving parents and her brother, Adolph Cortez, whom she held dearly in her heart. Carmela is survived by her devoted husband, Scott Altman, with whom she shared 25 beautiful years of marriage. She is also survived by her children, Victor Pratt and his partner Alicia Elizalde, and Victoria Ausbern with her husband JW Ausbern, who she loved very dearly. Her legacy lives on through her ten grandchildren, each a precious testament to the love she poured into her family, and seven great-grandchildren, who brought her endless delight and hope for the future. Carmela's life was a vivid tapestry woven with the threads of her siblings, Gregorio, Tommy, Lorenza (Yolanda), Mary, Susana, Valentina, and, who shared in her life's journey and cherished her deeply. Carmela dedicated much of her life to serving her community, retiring from the Pinal County Attorney's Office after a career of steadfast commitment and integrity. Her entrepreneurial spirit was evident in her various business ventures, past and present, always driven by the desire to contribute positively to those around her. A woman of unwavering faith, Carmela was an active member of the Coolidge Church of the Nazarene, where she led Celebrate Recovery classes and hosted bible studies with her husband in their home. Her leadership extended to the Rotary Club, where she served as past president and secretary, and she was a passionate volunteer, even taking on the role of cub scout leader during her children's school years. Carmela possessed a zest for life and learning that was truly remarkable. Her hobbies included sewing, crafts, music, art, and reading, each pursued with an enthusiasm that inspired those around her. Her open heart and empathetic nature led her to become an ordained minister, where she focused on supporting youth and women in challenging circumstances. Carmela's days were filled with purpose and love until her final moments. A celebration of Carmela's life will be held on April 10, 2026, at 9:00 AM at the Coolidge Church of the Nazarene, located at 1101 W Coolidge Ave, Coolidge, AZ 85128. Family, friends, and all whose lives Carmela touched are invited to join in remembering a remarkable woman whose love, faith, and kindness left an indelible mark on the world. In a special message from the family: "We have seen the wonder of family, church, and friends in these difficult times. Carmela was surrounded by family at her passing, which is a testimony of the love that was shared. Thank you all who were praying for her recovery. Our Father wanted her more than us." In honoring Carmela's life, let us remember her as a beacon of love and resilience, forever cherished in our hearts.