James E. Orris

James Edward Orris,72, of West Deer Township, beloved husband, brother, uncle, cousin, and cherished friend to so many, passed away at home Saturday August 13, 2022 surrounded by his loving family after a long and valiant battle with cancer. 

Jim was born March 5, 1950 in Natrona Heights, PA, son of the late Melvin G. and Anita (Patz) Orris.  He was most recently retired from his position as a security officer at UPMC St. Margaret Hospital, but held several various positions over the years.  However, he was no doubt most proud of and remembered as a Patrolman with the East Deer Township Police Department, a role in which he was able to serve his community.  Even after leaving the force, he continued to be a passionate advocate for law enforcement officers everywhere. 

Jim was a 1968 graduate of East Deer Frazer High School, Jim was an EDFRA Buck through and through, coordinating annual reunions and frequent gatherings thus maintaining lifetime friendships as a result.  Among his many interests, he coached little league baseball for many years.  He also followed the Steelers, Pirates, and his favorite team, the Penguins. He enjoyed riding his UTV, gardening, landscaping, oldies music and spending time with his cherished German Shepherds.  Jim was a friend to everyone he met and possessed an outgoing and welcoming persona that made him impossible not to like.  These last several courageous years were inspirational to many and an example of the toughness, faith, positivity and fortitude befitting the man he was.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Linda C. (Rochna) Orris, Brother Donald (Christina) Orris of Los Angeles, Sister-in-Law Christine (Rochna) Eller of Plum, Nephews James (Amber)Eller of Plum, Matthew Eller, of Plum, Josh Eller and fiancé Jackie Durick, of Plum, Chas (Kadierose)Orris of Arvada,CO, Daniel ( Jessica) Orris of Pittsburgh, Brendan (Caitlyn)Orris of East Deer Township, Nieces Leah (Orris)(Will) Skelton of Dallas, TX, Andrea Orris of Los Angeles, CA, Cara (Orris) (Justin)Bogardus of Dallas, TX and Nephew, Joshua Orris of San Diego, CA.   Great Nieces and Nephews—Derian Orris, William Skelton, Abigail Skelton, James Bogardus, Charlotte Eller, and James Jackson Eller. This family meant everything to him. He was so proud of every one of them. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his best friend and brother Charles Orris and brother-in-law James Eller. 

There will be no public viewing, however, relatives and friends are invited to attend a service Wed, Aug. 17 at 11 AM at Janes United Methodist Church, Creighton, PA where Jim was a lifelong member. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Lower Burrell. Arrangements by Duster Funeral Home, Inc. 347 E 10^th Ave, Tarentum, PA 724-224-1526. VISIT: dusterfh.com