James D. Orr

James D. (Jim) Orr, 87, passed away Thursday, August 7, 2025, in the comfort of his home, embraced with family love during his final days.

Jim was born in Grand Rapids, graduating from Central High School in 1956. Following his desire to be a pharmacist, he attended Ferris College, graduating in 1962 & spent the next 47+ years as a pharmacist in Retail Pharmacy. He loved his work as he was employed at various pharmacies during his career around West MI. Jim married his wife, Nancy in 1962 where they raised their three boys in Kentwood, MI. They cherished 63 years together spending summertime at the family cottage on Green Lake and eventually building year-round home in 1989. Jim was an active Boy Scout leader, mentoring young boys and teaching them life skills. He was also a leader with the Kentwood Jaycees, working with city leaders, as Kentwood had just become a city. He worked on many community projects such as Kentwood JC Park, City Census, going door to door, and moving the library into its new home on Kalamazoo Avenue. Jim loved gardening and canning his produce as well as making his infamous jam.  His “Jammin with Jim” was shared with family, neighbors, and friends. He was an avid fisherman and loved his boat and spent many hours on Lake Michigan and Green Lake, however in his later years his favorite thing to do was a pontoon trip around Green Lake. Most of all, Jim was a true Michigan State fan!

Jim is survived by his wife, Nancy, three sons, Kenneth (Karen), Douglas (Jody), and Randy (Maria) along with 6 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Phyllis (Jack) Scheffler, with many special nieces & nephews.

The family is hosting an Open House at their home on Green Lake, Saturday, August 30, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. celebrating Jim’s life.  Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice, local Boy Scout Troops, or a charity of your choice.

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