Giorgio “George” Orlandi, age 94 of Monee, Illinois passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at his home. George came to this country from Borgo Buggiano, Italy in 1946. He was drafted into the Army in 1955 and was stationed in Germany. He became a naturalized citizen in 1957.
In 1953, he met and married Marisa (nee Barsotti) Orlandi. They had two children, Gregory Orlandi (Carla) and Gail Joy (Dan). Marisa preceded him in death in 1971 after a long battle with cancer.
In 1976, he met and married Deborah Long (nee Caldwell) Orlandi and had become stepfather to daughter Dana (nee Long) Lusa (John). George and Debbie have been happily married for over 48 years.
George was co-owner of J&G Lift Truck, later opened R.P.S. Sales & Service with his brother, the late Graziano in Riverdale, Illinois and then relocated to Hammond, Indiana in 2004. George retired in 2015 at the age of 85. He was a mentor to many and was loved and respected by all.
George loved traveling, skiing, caring for his 5-acre home and spending time with family. He always had a new project to do.
George is survived by his loving wife Deborah; son Gregory; daughters Gail and Dana. He is Papa to six grandchildren; Matthew, Marisa, Alec, Jessica, Nina and Ashley. Great Grandfather to Gianna Emily and Vincenzo George. Dear brother to Vitusca (late Sergio) Campioni, late Graziano (Judy), brother-in-law to the late Roberta “Bobbie” Marcinkewicz, late Jack Marcinkewicz, late Rob Caldwell, Chris Caldwell and Jeff Caldwell. Also, the late Mary Lou Cossey (late Joe), Emily Brown (late Clark) and Theresa Setlak. He is an uncle to many nieces and nephews. George was preceded in death by his mother Maria L Orlandi (nee Guiducci), father Italo Orlandi and brother Graziano Orlandi.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 at Kish Funeral Home 10000 Calumet Avenue starting at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m with a prayer service at 3:30 p.m. and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. till the 11:00 a.m. service. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery 6001 W. 111th Street, Alsip, IL.
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