Obituary for John Michael Orak
John Michael Orak, 81 at Ithaca passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2023. Born July 6, 1941 in Linden, New Jersey he was the son of the late John and Anna Tomas Orak.
After graduating from Linden High School, he enlisted in the US Marines and proudly served his country.
From his military training, he had a lifelong career in computer technology, retiring from Ithaca College as Director of Computer Operations.
He took care of his developmentally disabled sister Anka , for 20 years and became an advocate for the disabled by serving on several state boards.
He loved to travel and had a passion for scuba diving which took him and his family to many exotic locations.
He was methodical and well organized, especially in his home record keeping. He didn't think twice about helping anyone in need, and was there for everyone.
He loved meeting people and sharing stories, laughing and /or flirting with whoever would lend a ear.
He was very devoted to his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Stephanie Gantman Orak, a daughter, Denise O'Rourke and son, John B. Orak and a sister, Mary Petyo as well as 3 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and 3 nieces and 4 nephews and a sister iin law, Irene Orak. He was predeceased by his siblings, Anka "Anna: Orak, Susan Tkach, Rose Marie Crespo, Andrew and Edward Orak and 2 nieces and 3 nephews.
We will be forever sad he is gone, but forever privileged we knew him.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital , 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Shriner's Hospital for Children,c/o Donor Relations, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive Tampa, FL 33607
Please sign John's guest book at http://www.zirbelfuneralhome.com. Zirbel funeral Home 115 Williams St. Groton, NY 13073
After graduating from Linden High School, he enlisted in the US Marines and proudly served his country.
From his military training, he had a lifelong career in computer technology, retiring from Ithaca College as Director of Computer Operations.
He took care of his developmentally disabled sister Anka , for 20 years and became an advocate for the disabled by serving on several state boards.
He loved to travel and had a passion for scuba diving which took him and his family to many exotic locations.
He was methodical and well organized, especially in his home record keeping. He didn't think twice about helping anyone in need, and was there for everyone.
He loved meeting people and sharing stories, laughing and /or flirting with whoever would lend a ear.
He was very devoted to his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Stephanie Gantman Orak, a daughter, Denise O'Rourke and son, John B. Orak and a sister, Mary Petyo as well as 3 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and 3 nieces and 4 nephews and a sister iin law, Irene Orak. He was predeceased by his siblings, Anka "Anna: Orak, Susan Tkach, Rose Marie Crespo, Andrew and Edward Orak and 2 nieces and 3 nephews.
We will be forever sad he is gone, but forever privileged we knew him.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital , 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the Shriner's Hospital for Children,c/o Donor Relations, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive Tampa, FL 33607
Please sign John's guest book at http://www.zirbelfuneralhome.com. Zirbel funeral Home 115 Williams St. Groton, NY 13073