Jaye,  Always enjoyed seeing the two of you out and about in your golf cart, a friendly chat or a wave, running into you both occasionally at the grocery.  So glad you have the closeness of a beautiful family around you.

Tom was one of the first people we met when Lynn and I purchased our cottage in Pentwater  Tom was a true gentlemen and I always enjoyed talking to him about the topic of the day. We will miss his smiling face. Dick and Lynn Guider

I met Tom during a medical treatment he was receiving. We found out that we both lived in Pentwater, so that added to our daily encounters during his treatment. Then we would occasionally chat at coffee after mass at St Vincent's in Pentwater. I actually bumped into him and his wife after mass in Feb of 2011 as I was coming to meet with the priest to plan my wife's funeral. I was very sad to hear the news of his passing since I had not seen him lately up at Duna Vista. My prayers are with his family  in this trying times. 

I missed seeing Tom and Jaye in Pentwater this summer, darn that covid.  For years, I would see them at church, at Meijer, or somewhere in Duna Vista, and we always had time for a chat.  I had a chance to meet Joe with them a few times over the past few years too.

Your Pentwater family will miss you, Tom, rest in peace.
Jaye, a big hug for you and prayers for comfort.  

We have known Tom and Jay ever since we moved to Duna Vista.  In fact Herb started doing the pool shortly after we moved in.  I think he replaced Ton and worked with  Doug Switzer.  He was a good friend.  His faith was strong and they were a very loving Couple.  We helped out whenever we could.  Herb would take them shopping before he went to rehab.  One liked Walmart and the other liked Meijers.  Tom would always come down and visit.  I know they both loved living up here.  Herb and I will miss him. Hugs to your family. Remember the good times.  With COVID and Herb out of commission we won’t be able to attend the funeral but our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family.

I'll remember Uncle Tom's smile and enthusiastic greeting he would give to you personally, when we gathered at our annual Christmas reunion party.  As Patriarch, he lead us in saying grace before the meal, as we stretched around the space, hand in hand to fill the room.  He always took this opportunity to share his joy and gratitude to being a part of this wonderful family tradition, started some 60 years before by his parents. Thank you Uncle Tom for your shining example of living a generous, full, loving life.  You will be sorely missed.  Watch over us. 
 The baton has been passed.

The family Christmas party will never be the same without Uncle Tom. He was much loved and will go on into eternal life leaving us with fond memories. It made me very happy to see his delight when I made him one of his favorite Croatian desserts, Chocolate Pita .  He tasted it and turned to me and said "you nailed it!"   I was so glad to give him one of life's little pleasures! God rest his soul!

I met Tom Orlich when my daughter became engaged to his son Joe.  He was a wonderful husband, father,  grandfather and friend.  I know he will be greatly missed by many.  Rest In Peace Tom.


I have known Mr. Orlich
(T-Daddy to me 😊) since my brother, Joe, and sister-in-law, Nancy, started dating in 1982.  He was always good to tell an entertaining story and seemed genuinely interested in what others had to say.  I have many fond memories of sharing Christmases and Birthdays with both Mr. & Mrs. Orlich  over the years.  A great, kind, soft-spoken man who will be truly missed.

When I found out our annual Orlich Christmas Party was canceled this year due to Covid, I was saddened. Since we only get to see most family this one day a year. The family has grown so much over the years and it’s hard to make rounds and talk to everyone individually, but I always made an effort to give Great Uncle Tom and Aunt Jaye hugs and chat with them. I looked forward to his annual dinner speech and prayer. You could see and feel the love and pride he had for his family. I’m sorry for the loss of Uncle Tom, the Patriarch. 

My Papa. 92 amazing years of life and I was lucky enough to be part of 21 years of them. I am so thankful to have really gotten to know my papa. I will cherish the memories we made in Pentwater, at every Orlich Christmas Party, Christmas Eve with the Harts, and every other event in between. The picture I have attached is from Summer 2016 when we went shopping and my papa bought a great pair of navy blue slip on shoes. He loved them so much he put them on as soon as he found the nearest seating....a massage chair. I will miss him and think of him everyday. 

My Uncle Tom was a perfect example of what being a good person will get you! He and Aunt Jaye showed me what true love is. He was so loved, there are (at least ) 4  more Thomases  on the planet that were named after him. Rest in peace.

OBITUARY

Thomas P. Orlich

September 19, 1928 – October 31, 2020

Harry J Will Funeral Homes

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