Richard Edward Orns

Richard “Dick” Edward Orns, a lifetime resident of Battle Creek, Michigan, went to his Heavenly home on January 8, 2026, at the age of 81.

Dick was born on April 12, 1944, to Richard Edward Orns, Sr. and Mildred Orns. He was a proud graduate of Harper Creek High School, Class of 1962, and a veteran who faithfully served in the United States Army National Guard. Dick retired as a 25-year club member from the Kellogg Company, where he worked diligently and with great pride until his retirement in 1996.

Dick was a man of deep faith. He was a member of Overflow Church and carried a legacy of faithful service at his childhood church, Glad Tidings Assembly, where his aunt and uncle, Bob and Edith Brizendine, pastored. It was at this small church on a hill that he met and married the love of his life.

In his younger years, Dick loved snowmobiling, building things, and taking things apart only to put them back together. Later in life, he could often be found tinkering for hours in his garage—working on his John Deere tractor or anything he believed he could “fix.”

Dick was truly one of a kind. Every Friday night, you could reliably find him at Harper Creek Stadium, sitting in the same row, cheering on his Beavers. You always knew when Dick was in the audience, often loudly cheering and affectionately embarrassing his children.

Dick was a lover of Michigan football and there was not a dog that he did not adore. He was a huge animal lover. Dick was big-hearted and generous, known as a loyal friend who would give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. If you were lucky enough to be his friend, you understood just how special he was. He held many friendships close to his heart, but most notably, his brother Sam was his best friend and soul connection. Their relationship was a beacon of hope and light as they walked through their final years together.

Above all else, Dick was fierce, loyal and deeply loved his family. He devoted countless hours and years to his wife, children, and grandchildren. There was nothing he would not do for the people he held dear.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn Orns; his children, Mark Orns and Stephanie (Lee) Journey; his cherished grandsons, Jentezen Journey and Adam Journey; and his sister, Chari Orns Chambers. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Edward Orns, Sr.; his mother, Mildred Orns; and his brothers, Sam Orns and Jim Orns.

Dick led a God-filled life. His faith and love in the Lord were paramount. He believed in the power of prayer and miracles which he had many. His faith could and did move mountains and was a shining example and legacy for his children and his grandchildren. In his last days the health struggles did not define Dick. His heart was too big and too sweet for this world, and he lovingly went home to be where his heart fit the most with family members, he often said he couldn’t wait to see again. May his strong work ethic, big heart and legacy live on through all whose lives he touched.

At Dick's request, cremation has taken place and a private family memorial will be held.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.