Charles Victor Orr

Charles Orr set his final course on a peaceful passage with his children by his side on Nov. 6, 2015. He was 92 years old. Charles was born to Sophie (Kaletta) and Victor Orzechowski on July 10, 1923 along with 3 older siblings; Helena, Marcella, and Ladd. During his childhood he lived in Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Belle River Ont. Charles graduated from Cass Technical High School (1940) then served his country bravely at the Invasion at Normandy through the liberation of Europe. He was a corporal in the Army Corp. of Engineers and his Engineer Combat Battalion earned a Presidential Unit Citation and the French Croix De Guerre with Silver Star for "Activity and Courage in the Face of Danger" while successful contributing to the Allied Invasion of Europe. Upon returning to civilian life he entered and graduated from the University of Michigan (1950). He was a talented Graphic Designer and worked for The Ford Motor Co. and ultimately Chevrolet for over 27 years. One of his final projects was the '85' Corvette. He loved the many outdoor activities such as skiing but Charles' true passion was sailing. During his long life he spent countless hours on his sailboats enjoying the peace and beauty of the Great Lakes. Charles and Amelia Dzialowski (d. 1971) married (1954) and had 4 children; Gregory Charles, Stevan John (Theresa Di Salvo(w), Thomas), Stasia Anne ( Paul Revere, III(h), Kira, Paul), Daniel Victor (Lydia Rainieri(w), Anthony, Joseph, Nicholas) and lived in Farmington Hills, MI over 55 years. Charles was instrumental in the emigration of his cousin George Green from Poland during the Cold War. Charles was widowed and remarried Marilyn (Beane d. 2015) in 1985. Charles was a member Emeritus of Crescent Sail Yacht Club. He is survived by all his children, nieces, nephews, extended family and his brother Ladd Orr (Barbara) of Ft. Meyers, FLA. Charles comfort and care was made possible by his children, primarily his son Daniel and wife Lydia and the many care givers at Brookdale in Novi, MI and Comappassus Hospice Services. Our prayers and wishes are with Charles on his final sail to his safe harbor. A memorial service will be held at the O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home 41555 Grand River Novi Friday November 27, 2015 at 2:00pm with friends gathering at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to NAMI 921 N Washington Ave. Lansing, MI. 48906 www.namimi.org