Ivan Cortes-Bettancourt Obituary (1969 - 2023)

Ivan Cortes-Bettancourt (54), a beloved resident of Grand Rapids, born in Santiago, Chile, left this world after a courageous year-long battle with cancer. Ivan passed peacefully, in the embrace of his sons and siblings, on September 25th, 2023. He was a vibrant force and warm smile that was ready to craft a bond with anyone. We say goodbye to the body of a man whose heart was as infinite as his love for people, art, and the gentle thrill of competition. Ivan had an extraordinary ability to connect with others on a profound, and meaningful level. In his compassionate nature and genuine interest, he was the kind of person you couldn't help but be drawn to. Whether it was a casual chat on the bar rail, a conversation of life with his long-time West Ottawa friends, or an indirect lesson to be taught to his sons, he made every interaction feel like a cherished moment. Beyond his passion for sports and the human connection, Ivan was a talented architect. He possessed a unique ability to blend creativity with functionality, turning dreams into tangible structures. His designs were more than a project, they were works of art that embodied his passion, precision, and dedication to the craft. Ivan was preceded in death by his mother and father, Gladys and Eliseo Cortes. He is survived by his sons, Nikolas (Gabrielle) Cortes and Marcelo (Aubrey) Cortes; the mother of his children, Claudia Bernal; his siblings, Christian Cortes, Roxana (Enrique) Cortes, Ximena (Mark) Tomasik, Claudio (Trista) Cortes, Theda (Miguel) Luna Cortes, Veronica Cortes Pozo; his many nieces, nephews, loyal friends, and Chilean family. In Ivan's last few months, he continued to lend his ear to family and friends. Selflessly, he listened to the joys and sorrows of those closest to him. In the twilight of his journey, all he wanted in return was for his hand to be held, or to feel the belly kicks of his soon-to-be-born grandson. His battle with cancer teaches us that each moment is an opportunity to adore, to connect, to pursue dreams, and to face adversity with bravery. Ivan requested a Celebration of Life, open to all who knew him, ages 21+ at Anchor Bar. Address: 447 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 Date: Sunday, October 1st, 2023. Time: Open House style, from 5pm - 10pm. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.