Gary Lee Orr was born on February 21, 1952, to Francis and Doris (Johnson) Orr. He grew up enjoying the country living with his three siblings. He attended grade school in Ypsilanti and then transitioned to Jamestown High School, graduating in 1970. After school, he joined the Army National Guard. He fulfilled his 6-year enlistment and was honorably discharged in 1976 as a Specialist/5.
He went to work with his dad and his brothers installing suspended ceilings for Flament-Ulman. His job took him all over the region, making friends everywhere he went. He took great pride in his work, aways making sure to point out buildings where he installed the ceilings as we would drive by them. His calm demeanor and professional attitude on the jobsites made him one of the most respected guys there. He worked that same job up until his retirement at age 62. Outside of work, he enjoyed his years playing softball, going out deer hunting, and playing league pool where he captained his team that brought home many city championship jackets and trophies. Riding motorcycle was a large part of his life. He was member of the F-M Crusaders Motorcycle Club, and always needed a new Harley shirt if he knew someone was going to new city. Over the years, he made countless friends. He had that natural ability to talk to anyone he met. He was the kind of guy that would do anything he could to help a friend and not expect anything in return. Listening to music was a must. It was a good day when he put a few songs on the jukebox or got up at a dance to bust a move or jam on his air guitar. Sundays were for watching football. He would cheer on the Vikings and whichever team he had in his prize pools.
Most importantly, he loved his family. He married his wife Sandie (Telken) in 1979 and loved her dearly until death parted them. He would always introduce her as his “lovely bride.” Some of his favorite times were playing board games or cards with the kids and grandkids (as long as he was winning). Sitting around a picnic table or a bon fire enjoying conversations outdoors was always a welcome pastime. Most often, he would sit in “his spot” on the couch and watch nature shows or history programs, usually with his iPad on his lap, playing casino games or sharing dumb jokes he found on Facebook.
Gary is survived by his wife, Sandie; his children, Stacy (Lacy) Orr, Darci Visocsky, Kaylee (Ben) Rodgers, Rick (Steph) Orr, Bobby (Jerrica) Orr, Casey (Marissa) Orr; mother, Doris Orr; siblings, Doug (Terri) Orr, Randy (Barb) Orr, Darla (Larry) Ahles; and multiple grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his father, Francis Orr; grandchild, Gaven Rodgers; son-in-law, Chris Visocsky; Father-in-law, Jim Telken; Mother-in-law, Freda (Benson) Telken and brother-in-laws, Scott Fliflet, Tony Telken, Gordon Anderson; and sister-in-law, Barbara Berg.
Family will be receiving friends from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM with a prayer service being held at 6:00 PM, Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at Eddy Funeral Home.
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