Alexander Orlyk

On Sunday, August 8, 2010, the 325th day of his 93^rd year, Alex Orlyk passed on to join his loving wife, Helen Bartlett, his daughter, Elizabeth, his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth (Szlachtycz). And there in heaven, the Lord permitting, he will also join his siblings, Alexander, Stephen (Shelia), Louis (Kay), and Joseph (Mary). He leaves behind his brother, H. Vincent, his son, John (Rose), four grandchildren: Linda (Ray) Riemer, James (Shannon), Douglas, and Steven (Laura), eleven great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, many nieces and nephews, and his dear friends Paul and Jeanne Yhouse.

Alex was born September 13, 1917 in Troy, NY (North Greenbush Township). He attended Catholic High and Troy High. He graduated from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Alex served in the United States Army from April 1942 to December 1946 when he was discharged as a First Lieutenant. Alex and Helen made their home in Grand Rapids, until 1992 when they moved to Holland. Always motivated by his experiences, Alex and Helen traveled to various places around the United States and Canada, enjoying the natural beauty, good food, and companionship of others.

Alex will be remembered as a practical, well-read man who had a variety of interests. An avid sports fan, he loved to watch the Michigan college and professional teams and hear the stories of his great-grandchildren’s athletic endeavors. A lover of music, he took great pride in the musical abilities of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be said at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Holland with visitation one hour prior to Mass. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Alex’s name.