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Sanford Orkin Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sanford Orkin, age 93, on March 4, 2025.
He met the love of his life, Barbara Hartman, at the age of 15, and they spent more than 70 years together. Sanford was a graduate of Druid Hills High School, playing in the marching band until he was recruited by the football team as a running back. At only 5 feet and change, his speed earned him the nickname "Mighty Mite."
Just short of his graduation from The University of Georgia, where he remained a lifetime Bulldog fan, he was drafted to the Army on his wedding day. Upon his completion of service, he returned to the family business where he had been working since 12 years of age. He became the President of Orkin Pest Control, turning the company around and leading it through its successful sale in 1964. He spent the rest of his career as a private investor, serving on multiple boards, and advising diverse non-profits and businesses.
Sanford maintained a strong commitment to supporting philanthropic endeavors spanning across education, healthcare, the arts, Jewish community, and more. His even bigger impact resides with his value and commitment to family.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara Hartman of 66 years, his parents, Otto Orkin and Miriam Rosenthal, siblings Bernice Orkin Kaye, Gloria Orkin Bregman and William "Billy" Orkin, and grandson, Joseph Soriano.
He is survived by his children, Sherri (Moe) Soriano, Laurie (David) Ginburg, Michael (Judy) Orkin, and Kenny Orkin. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Julie (Stephen), Lauren, Brian (René), Joanna (Jake), Samara (Brandon), Brennen (Nate), Kailey (Joseph), Andrew (Krysten), and Elliott; and eleven great-grandchildren.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Ahavath Achim Synagogue, Weinstein Hospice, or the charity of your choice. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM EST on Thursday, March 6 at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, 600 Peachtree Battle Ave. NW, Atlanta, GA 30327, followed by a private burial. Funeral arrangements by Dressler's Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sanford Orkin
Sponsored by Dressler's Jewish Funeral Care.
3 Entries
Carol (Wonderland) Boring
June 28, 2025
To the Orkin family and especially to Kenny: I have just learned of Sanford's homegoing. I have wonderful memories of Sanford and Barbara as for many years past my late husband (Chuck Wonderland), and I were associated with Sanford and Barbara. As they have blessed so many with their loving kindness, I have been blessed to have known them. Love and prayers to especially Kenny.
Carol (Wonderland) Boring
Barbara Cristal Krasnoff
March 10, 2025
Sending sincere sympathy to the family of Sanford Orkin. He and I were friends at Druid Hills High School. I also knew his wife Barbara. Those were the days in Atlanta when the people in the Jewish community knew everyone. He was a quiet philanthropist who loved his family and his community. May he rest in peace.
Sandy Abrams
March 6, 2025
Heartfelt condolences to
Sherri,Moe,Laurie,David,Michael,Judy ,Kenny and families
Sanford was a quiet giant.
He was devoted to his family and incredibly influential in his community and business.
May his memory be a blessing.
Sandy and Dave Abrams
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Funeral services provided by:
Dressler's Jewish Funeral Care3734 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd. P.O. Box 80647, Atlanta, GA 30341
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