Gerard Anthony Orkus

Gerard Anthony Orkus, 62, departed this life on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, surrounded by family, friends, and "Jesus' Amigo." As a native of New Orleans and a lifelong resident of Metairie, his passion for music was fueled by his beating heart. Gerry graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1973 and received a Bachelor of Arts in Music-Instrumental Education from the University of New Orleans in 1979. He began his career teaching music and molding boys into men at Holy Cross School. Gerry spent the majority of his life in the music sector performing with various artists and groups. His talent and love for music was evident in his everyday life. Most recently he was Executive VP of Research and Development for Mindy's Garden Service, LLC. His leisure time was spent as an active parishioner, choir member, and Vincentian Lay Missioner at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Gerry was preceded in death by his loving parents, Pearl Marie Daigle Orkus and William C. "Bill" Orkus Jr. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 37 years, Melinda Louise Frick Orkus; children, Jennifer Orkus Marshall (Todd) and Joshua Anthony Joseph Orkus; siblings, Margaret Toups (Harry), William Orkus III (Cindy), Michael Orkus and Stephen Orkus (Susan); grandchildren, Ainsley, Skylar, Joshua, Keegan and Michael; as well as many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at L. A. Muhleisen & Son Funeral Home, 2607 Williams Blvd., Kenner on Friday, January 12, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday, January 13, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church,1802 Tulane Ave., New Orleans from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. To honor his life, donations can be made to Holy Cross High School or St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Gerry's name. To view or sign the online guest book, please visit www.muhleisen.com.