John W. Orris
September 21, 1932 ~ August 1, 2022
It is with deep sorrow and abundant love that we mourn the passing of John W. “Bill” Orris. A devoted husband, father, brother, grand-father, great grand-father, and friend, passed away on August 1, 2022 at the age of 89 in Medina, OH following a long and courageous battle with serious illness.
Upon returning from the Korean war, Bill met the love of his life and bride of 66 years on a blind date in Painesville where the two danced, fell in love and were married 2 months later, eloping to Indiana. They resided in Madison, OH for over 60 years where they raised 5 children. Bill worked for Diamond Shamrock/Ricerca for over 40 years, retiring in 1998. Bill and Nancy later moved to Medina in 2016 to be closer to their family.
He will be lovingly remembered for his strong faith, deep devotion to his family and friends, and military service. Those that knew him well will be blessed with the memories of his love for gardening, playing cards, sharing an endless supply of jokes, occasionally having a cold one, watching college football on Saturday, bragging about his grandchildren's achievements, occasionally telling a true fishing story and having seen every Western ever filmed…twice. Bill left an indelible mark on so many and possessed a truly unique ability to make everyone he engaged feel like they were special to him.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Nancy; children: Andy (Cece), Scott (Clare), Kristin (Mark) Elmore, Katie (John) Ericksen and Bennie (Cindy); 17 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren. Bill was proceeded in death by his mother Cecilia, father Ben, brothers David, Benny, Robert, George, and sister Bernadette. He is survived by his brother Ritchie.
Friends will be received 5-7 pm Friday August 5, 2022 at Behm Family Funeral Home, 26 River Street in Madison. Service will take place at 12 noon Saturday, August 6, 2022 at the Funeral Home with a 1 hour visitation to take place beginning at 11 am. Contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com
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My God surround this family with His loving arms and give them comfort and peace.
Dear Nancy and Family:
I remember the wonderful times we had traveling together and our many get togethers whether it was a Friday night fish fry or basketball night when Nancy and I got together while the guys played basketball. So glad Tony got to meet and greet Bill when we did our cruise together. You have a wonderful loving and adoring family – Rest In Peace Bill!
Sorry for your loss, I worked with Bill at Ricerca he was a great guy. I learned a lot of things working with Bill. He was always very helpful showing me how to do things in the plant.
Our prayers go out to Nancy and their family. There are just too many memories we have with both Bill and Nancy to recount them all. From Lake Chautaqua to the opening of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, harvesting Christmas trees, drinks and dinner in downtown Cleveland. These will be precious memories we will never forget. Our hearts go out to you. Tonight I raise a Manhattan in honor of Bill. God Bless you all. Bill rest in peace. All our love to Nancy
Buck & Cindy Kelly
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this trying time.
Dear Nancy & Family, We are saddened by the passing of Bill, a dear & cherished friend. Nancy, you and your wonderful family are in our hearts and prayers. Remembering times with you & Bill bring back a flood of great memories, “Friday Nite” Fun,’ West Main St. neighbors, Always Duffy’s, The Holidays…Christmas Eve, Cutting down trees, Year 2000 Celebration, St Patty’s Day Parades-Joan & Eddie, Charm & Roger. The list goes on, however the best memory of all was being with you and Bill & the love you shared with us all. God bless Bill, you and your wonderful family. Love & Blessings, Danny & Pam
Dear Nancy and Orris family,
My deepest sympathy on the passing of Bill. He was a kind and caring man and always fun to be with when our paths crossed at Andy and Cece’s home. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May the many wonderful memories bring you solace as you grieve. Bill will always remain in your heart. Love, Sharon
Adios amigo. We love you! Willy, Brooke, Adrian, Madelyn and Roberto!
We just learned of Bill’s passing. So many great memories at Uncle Ben’s growing up. Our deepest condolences.