He was born in 1924 to Dr. Howard A. Orvis and Mrs. Harriet Angell Orvis in Grass Lake, Michigan. He attended school in Winnetka, Illinois, graduating from New Trier High School. He received an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering and a graduate degree in industrial management from the University of Michigan, following his service in the US Navy during World War II. He was also a proficient trumpet player by the time he got to high school and was in the marching band at the University of Michigan, as well as in the V-12 marching band in the Navy.
His work as an engineer for many major manufacturing companies took him across the country and across the world, often traveling to Europe and Asia. He often recalled these trips in his wonderful stories that he was so well known for.
He was active in leadership rolls in the American Manufacturing Association and in the Republican Party of Texas. He retired in 1989 from Dresser Industries as group President. After retiring he was active in Silver Foxes, mentoring young entrepreneurs and on the board of Lonestar College. He was very fond of the many museums in Houston, as well as the Houston Zoo and was very happy his great grandchildren have wonderful memories of frequently visiting them on their trips to see him in Texas. He was an avid bird watcher and gardener. He was also a wonderful host to those who came to visit him always taking pride in taking those loved ones to dinner at some of his favorite restaurants in Kingwood and the surrounding area.
He was preceded in death by his dearly loved wife of 54 years Elizabeth Batten Orvis, by his parents and by his sisters, Clara, Helen and Anna.
He is survived by his daughter Margaret Dudics of Kingwood, Texas, and her husband Theodore. Also by his granddaughter Elizabeth Mortura and her husband, Ovidiu of Greenville, South Carolina, as well as his great-grandchildren Isabella, Oliver and Lily Ana, and many nieces and a nephew and many other loving friends.
A memorial service will be held at Kingwood Funeral Home on Thursday, April 5, at 11:00 AM.
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