Contributions to the tribute of Larry Russell Orkus

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David Smith posted a condolence

Saturday, April 8, 2023

My sincere condolences to the Orkus family. I ran across Mr. Orkus's obituary just now, and would like to say a few words about his impact on my life. In the early 1970s, I was a Sunday paperboy when the Orkuses lived on Whitehall Rd. in State College. They were my only customers to take both the Washington Post and the NY Times -- by far my heaviest and most-expensive papers! Mr. Orkus was a friendly and approachable customer, and a generous tipper when service was good. Flash forward and he bought Kalins Clothing Store on S. Allen Street. Mr. Orkus hatched the idea for Kalins to provide free shoeshines to customers every Saturday. He phoned and offered me the job of shoeshine boy. What a life-changing experience it was for a young teen to partake in the world of work, responsibility, and interactions with adults for a magical run of 3-4 years. The pay was $1.50/hr (eventually $2.50) and I felt as wealthy as an oil baron. Mr. Orkus's creativity was always in evidence. For example, he produced distinctive, ahead-of-their-time print ads each week in the CDT. He arranged for his employees to work as "live mannequins" in the store's front display cases during Arts Festival week, and this was the talk of the town. He bought all his employees (including me) lunch every Saturday, and we could order whatever we wanted -- those were some massive hauls from the Corner Room and Stage Door Deli! Mr. Orkus seemed a legendary figure. Looking back, as an employee I started out lazy and clueless. Mr. Orkus was patient and tolerant of my shortcomings, but gave me straightforward, well-timed, and kindhearted feedback -- he urged me to become gently assertive, and expected me always to "look busy" no matter what. When not shining shoes, I was to fold (or refold) shirts, ties, etc., and clean (reclean) floors and glass showcases -- just "don't sit there on your duff." The demanding but fair expectations were excellent training for a lifetime of future work. When I couldn't make it to work, Mr. Orkus gave my close friend an opportunity to fill in. I was also struck by the sense that Mr. Orkus felt himself lucky to have ended up with Mrs. Orkus. His mood brightened every time she walked into the store. During an employee holiday party at their home, we all stood and watched them dancing, and it was lovely. I left State College 45 years ago, but the memories remain vivid. Thank you, Mr. Orkus, for your positive mentoring impact that will last for the rest of my life. May God rest your soul.

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Natalie Saibel lit a candle

Thursday, January 26, 2023

I was lucky to meet Larry on a few occasions in Brooklyn, and so very lucky to be good friends with his wonderful daughter Lauren. I’m so sorry for your loss, and I’m sending so much love to you all during this difficult time.

J

Judy lit a candle

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

I met Mr. Orkus several years ago in Brooklyn. It was at a birthday party for Lauren. (38th, maybe?) I recall it being a beautiful day and we sat at long tables outside. I chatted with Mr. Orkus for some time and was delighted by our conversations. He was so engaging and charming. And also...such a gifted storyteller! I remember leaving the party thinking to myself, "Yes. Lauren is definitely his daughter." While I hadn't seen Mr. Orkus in several years, I'm happy to have this lovely memory of him. Sending much love & light to Judy, Lauren, Spencer and Ryan.

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Doug Sweetland lit a candle

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

I grew up as a very close friend of the Orkuses. Our families spent a lot of time together back and forth at each other's houses. In a lot of ways we were like second families. They certainly were to me. Larry was a huge part of that, in many ways a larger than life person even apart from our closeness. He was always at the center of things with a provocative, often hilarious take on something, and to us kids, even those who weren't his own, he was a father figure with an eye towards our growth and potential. He was inspiring. Sort of impossibly together, self-assured, funny, and light. He made being an adult seem fun, like he was getting away with something. What an incredibly rare spirit. I hope it lives on in the rest of us.

S

Samantha lit a candle

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

Larry was a very special and dear friend to me. Although i was his clinician, it was hard not to develop a personal friendship with a man so vibrant and determined, despite any limitation thrown at him. He taught me a lot about the meaning of life, how to be truly grateful, and how to be optimistic when I had days I thought weren't going my way. We had many laughs, smiles, and heart-felt moments these past few years. I am truly grateful our paths crossed and I was able to meet a man like Larry. You will be deeply missed by many.

J

Julie Foster lit a candle

Monday, January 23, 2023

I have so many wonderful memories of Larry! There was no one I loved being in conversation with more than him. To feel heard especially as a teenager was incredible. Larry made me feel smart, important and like I mattered. He will be missed. Sending love to you all.

A Memorial Tree was planted for Larry Orkus

Monday, January 23, 2023

We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Koch Funeral Home

Larry Russell Orkus

1943 - 2023

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