"Please accept my sincerest condolences on the loss of your beloved, Mary. I pray you will find comfort in the promises from our Creator when he stated, 'Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out (John 5:28, 29). This is a guarantee from God that soon we will be with our loved ones in the resurrection. May God grant you the peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. jw.org"
In loving memory of
Mary K. Orendorff
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969
Mary K Hamilton Orendorff was born February 6, 1928 to Opal Matticks and Elmer Hamilton in Ashland, KS. She graduated from Ashland High School, KS. She met SinClair Orendorff in college and they married on November 27, 1947; they later divorced after nearly 40 years of marriage. Her college career was interrupted by children, but she did return and graduated from Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK in 1958 with an elementary education degree. She was a dedicated teacher in Oklahoma and Wyoming until her retirement in 1985. As well as being involved in public school systems, she helped implement Head Start and brought the first VISTA volunteers for literacy to Powell, WY. She remained actively involved in the Powell, WY community after her retirement; some of her special interests were the Loaves and Fishes food bank, recycling and Habitat for Humanity; she was also very active in the Methodist Church. She enjoyed singing in the church choir, bridge, traveling and socializing with her many special friends.
Mary K moved to Woodinville, WA in 2005 to live with her son, David, and his wife and be close to her youngest daughter, Candace, and numerous grandchildren. She remained actively involved with her church, the local Habit for Humanity and continued her passion for bridge.
Mary K was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 and after surgery and treatments finally lost the battle on December 12, 2008; she was surrounded by love at the time of her death. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and friend and her physical presence will be missed. She was an active participant in her children's and grandchildren's lives and they will forever remember her for her efforts to be there for them when she was needed.
Mary K is survived by all her children: Jeannine Larry Cozzens of Billings, MT, David Vickie Orendorff of Woodinville, WA, Larry Libby Orendorff of Apopka, FL, Michael Melinda Orendorff of Pueblo, CO and Candace Tom Horton of Bellevue, WA; numerous grandchildren: Jessica Jourdan, Ryan, Erika Shyam, Johanna Marty, Jason, Renee Mike, Zayin, Tzaddi Matt, Patricia Nahum, Aaron Amanda, Cory and Tyler She also has three great-grandchildren.
Powell Tribune & Billings Gazette Memorials can be given to First United Methodist Church of Powell, WY, Powell Valley Loaves and Fishes, Mountain Spirit Habitat for Humanity or a charity of your choice.
Woodinville Paper Memorials can be given to Habitat for Humanity EKC, Helping Hand at Bear Creek United Methodist Church of Woodinville, WA or any other charity supported by Bear Creek United Methodist Church, Evergreen Hospice or a charity of your choice.
Memorial services will be held at Bear Creek United Methodist Church 16530 Avondale Rd NE, Woodinville, WA on December 20, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. and the First United Methodist Church 137 W. 2nd Street, Powell, WY on December 18, 2008 at 4:00 p.m.
For those unable to attend a guestbook maybe signed at Evergreen-Washelli www.washelli.com
Tributes
"She was a wonderful mother and I will miss her terribly. There will be a memorial service at Bear Creek Methodist Church on Saturday, December 20."
"My deepest condolences to Mary K's family. I remember her as a Sunday School teacher and advisor for the Methodist Youth Group while growing up in Powell. She was a wonderful person, respected by many of us who grew up there. I know she will be missed her family and many friends. My sincerest sympathy."
"Sharing in your sorrow at the loss of someone so special. I am so sorry to miss the memorial in Powell but I am flying to Oregon Dec. 17."
"Elfriede and I offer our deepest sympathy. We have been friends for many years. I worked with Mary Kay and several student teachers in the schools and Elfriede played bridge with her regularly in the club. We hope time will ease the pain you feel and also the relief knowing she is free of suffering."
"I have many fond memories of Aunt Mary Kay. My heart goes out to each of my cousins. My love and prayers surround each of you. I'm sorry I can't be there to celebrate your dear Mother's beautiful life, but my thoughts will be with you."
"the most GOD fearing person i've ever known......I LUV U GRANDMA!!!"
"Hi Candace and family, Mary K was a very special person and I am so sorry for your loss. I am sorry I was unable to attend the memorial services in Powell today but please know I am thinking of you. This is a very sad time for all of you. Love, Laurie"
"Dear Candace, Our deepest sympathy is with you, Tom and your family. Love, Jackie and Don"
"Mary Kay, always had a sweet smile and was kind and loving to everyone she met. We used to play bridge together with the faculity ladies of NWCC. Gods blessings to the family. Katherine Oliver Hooper"
"Aunt Mary K. was a wondeful aunt to me and Bob. I will miss my phone conversations with her. She was always checking to see how we were doing. She was a special, active, and dedicated to her church and special giving projects. I loved her. Diana"