Edwin Russell Orr

1936 - 2025

Apr 5, 1936 - Dec 29, 2025

Edwin Russell Orr was born on April 5, 1936, in Spearfish, South Dakota. He moved to Spokane during his senior year of high school, where he would build a life full of love, faith, and hard work.

Ed met the love of his life, Loretta Looman, on a blind date, and they were married on August 11, 1956 – just shy of celebrating 70 years together.

At 19 years old, Ed began his career at Inland Empire Paper Company. He started in the company store and worked his way up to Millwright, then into management, and eventually served as project manager for the installation of the new paper machine. He retired in 2001 at the age of 65, having dedicated his working life to the company. Ed went on to enjoy a long, healthy and active retirement.

Ed is survived by his wife, Loretta Orr; his children Dale (Jane) Orr, Gale (Ron) Costa, Linda (Mark) Prothero and Mark Orr; and his grandchildren Jeremy, Chrissy Fay, Mitchell, Marcy, Michael and Marla. He is also survived by eight great-grandchildren (with one on the way), and one great-great-granddaughter. He is further survived by his younger sister, Mary Lu (Clancy) Howard; along with many nieces, nephews and favorite cousins.

Ed lived in Greenacres for over 70 years, though his heart always remained in Spearfish, South Dakota, where he grew up near the Black Hill he so loved.

He passed away peacefully in Greenacres on December 29, 2025, at the age of 89.

Ed was a devoted member of Advent Lutheran Church and shared his faith freely, greeting every nurse, doctor and stranger who came to the door with the hope he lived by. One of his final quotes was, "heaven is forever."

A viewing will be held at Hennessey's Valley Funeral Home, 1315 North Pines Road, on January 15 & 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, January 17, at 11:00 a.m., at Advent Lutheran Church, 13009 E Broadway, followed by a luncheon.

Pastor Matt Larson officiating.

Please join us as we celebrate the life of Ed Orr – because the "upshot of the story" is, Ed had a great life. He loved Jesus, and he is fine now.