Kenneth L. Orr, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, at Cedar Creek Senior Living

in East Bethel, MN, surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born in Cedar, MN, to Ada and Lyman Orr. He grew up on the family farm and attended

grade school in a one-room schoolhouse. Throughout his youth, he worked hard on the farm

before graduating from St. Francis High School in 1959.

Ken was a proud veteran, serving in the Army National Guard from December 15, 1956, to

December 14, 1959. During his service, he earned his Marksman (Carbine) badge, the

Minnesota Good Conduct Medal twice, a Gold Star (Second Award), and his Five Year Service

Medal.

Following his military service, Ken met Irene Burch, and the two were wed in 1965. That same

year, Ken was recruited by the Anoka Electric Co-op (now Connexus Energy). He dedicated

just over 40 years of hard work as a lineman, retiring in 1999. Not one to sit still or be away from

people, Ken then spent 19 years driving dump trucks part-time for "the guys," a gig he

thoroughly enjoyed until his eyesight began to fail him.

Ken will be remembered as the ultimate conversationalist. He always kept track of local events

and possessed the rare ability to strike up a genuine conversation with absolutely

anyone—typically with a cold beer in his hand.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Irene; his children, Carol (Eric), David (Chris), and Robyn

(Curt); his grandchildren, Blake, Brandon (Jenna), Nate (Christina), and Nick; his great-

grandchildren, Owen, Leni, Ryder, and baby girl Carty; his siblings, Barb (Donald), Sam (Karen),

Les (Paulette), Pat, and John (Karen); his sister-in-law, Kay; as well as many nieces, nephews,

other extended family members, and friends.

The family is deeply grateful to the staff at Cedar Creek Senior Living for their patience, dignity,

and genuine compassion shown to Ken and our family.

We will miss you, Ken. May you see clearly now, be free from pain, and get the best table while

you wait for us to join you. Rest in peace.

Service for Ken will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale St NW, Oak Grove, MN, 55011 on June 19th at 11:00AM with visitation one hour prior to service at 10:00AM and luncheon to follow. 

In leiu of flowers, consider a donation to help fight Alzheimer's for his loving wife, Irene. 

Click here https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate