Hugh Thomas Orlin

Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Louis and Carol Orlin, he was a graduate of Pioneer High School, Class of 1975, and Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor. He enlisted in the United States Army and served in Germany in the early eighties. On his return, he earned a certification as Pharmacy Technician through the Pharmacy Technology program at Washtenaw Community College. This led to his long career as a Pharmacy Tech in the In-Patient Pharmacy at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor. He recently retired from that position.

An avid cyclist and life-long naturalist, he spent a lot of time outdoors, doing yardwork, getting exercise, and appreciating the world around him. Fittingly, he belonged to the Bicycle and the Conservation Clubs in high school. He was very interested in the ongoing development of the Border to Border (B2B) Trail. He also enjoyed kayaking. In keeping with his care for the Earth, he sought to minimize his carbon footprint. He had many long-term friends, some going back to grade school. He was very helpful to his family members and neighbors, helping around the house doing yardwork, and raking or shoveling. He maintained a butterfly garden. You could usually get an explanation if you had a question about birds, animals, or insects. Fittingly, his text notification sound was crickets chirping. He loved to frequent resale shops, bringing home curios, and DVDs of old movies and TV shows. He also collected CDs and LPs, sometimes presenting to family members books or records he thought we would like.

Hugh was known for his ready wit and quizzical expressions, being able to make a groan-worthy zinger of a pun out of something in almost every conversation. In keeping with his care for people, he was quick to give anyone the benefit of the doubt. In his easy-going way, he was truly a free spirit.

Hugh is survived by his siblings, Lesley Regan (John III); David Orlin (Diane Winder) and their son, Karyl Stein (his children Ann and William); Celia Riecker and her children, Heather Koch (Stephen, son John) and Christopher; and several cousins. He is predeceased by both parents.

A celebration of life for Hugh will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we'd appreciate with thanks a donation in his memory to a conservation or biking project of your choice.