Gene Douglas Orwick

December 19, 1929 – September 27, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gene Douglas Orwick on September 27, 2024, at the age of 94. Gene passed away peacefully in his son's home in Terrebonne, Oregon, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Lonerock, Oregon, on December 19, 1929, to Frances K. Huddleston Orwick and Roy "Rusty" Orwick, Gene lived a full and well-rounded life as a devoted family man, successful business owner, dedicated community leader, and avid outdoorsman.

In 1940, the Orwick family relocated to Heppner, Oregon, where Gene attended high school until 1947 when he entered the Army. During his military service, he rose to the rank of Sergeant and experienced one of the great honors of his life—standing as Honor Guard for President Harry Truman, an event captured in the San Francisco newspaper.

After completing his military service, Gene worked in various jobs before moving to Alaska in 1950. However, when the Korean War began, he returned home as a member of the Army Reserve but was not called back to active duty. On September 23, 1950, Gene married the love of his life, Dona Marlene Gayhart, in Heppner, and together they celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2000. Gene and Dona raised two children, Lynda and Mike, while they built a career as small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Gene's entrepreneurial spirit was evident throughout his life. In the mid-1950s, he purchased and operated the Lexington Chevron Station for nearly a decade before transitioning to driving freight and gas trucks. In 1969, he acquired Pendleton-Heppner Freight Lines, and in the mid-1970s, he and Dona established the Lexington Lumber Yard. In the 1980s, they began selling snowmobiles and ATVs, expanding their business endeavors.

A lifelong believer in the value of community service, Gene was deeply involved with the Heppner Elks Lodge #358. He served as Exalted Ruler, Chair of the Trustees, and later as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for Oregon Northeast from 1981 to 1982. He also contributed to the State Hide Committee, served as State Chaplain, and held numerous leadership roles with the Elks over his 72 years of involvement. Additionally, he spent over 14 years on the Youth Activities Committee, leaving a lasting impact on countless young people.

Gene's service extended beyond the Elks. He was elected mayor of Lexington, Oregon, and served the town for over 30 years in various roles, including Mayor, City Recorder and Councilman. He was a two-time Master of the Heppner Masonic Lodge #69 and a life member of the Al Kader Shrine Temple of Wilsonville. As a 32nd-degree member of the Baker Valley Scottish Rite, Gene exemplified the values of Freemasonry. He also served as President and Secretary-Treasurer of the Tri-County Shrine Club and held a three-year term as State Chairman of ticket sales for the East-West Shrine Football Game. Gene was awarded the

Hiram Award, a lifetime achievement award given to a Master Mason, in May 2023 for his devoted service from The Grand Lodge of Masons of the State of Oregon.

Gene's love for the outdoors was ever-present in his life. He was President of the 4-Corners Snowmobile Club, setting up groomed trails and receiving a Groomer from the State Association for his contributions. He was also a private pilot for over 20 years and enjoyed fishing and hunting. Gene became an avid golfer later in life, as an activity he could enjoy it with family and friends. Despite the late start in the sport, he was quite successful for his age in local tournaments and incurred multiple hole-in-ones.

Most important to Gene was his family. He is survived by his daughter, Lynda Orwick Firth of Eugene, Oregon; his son, Mike Orwick (Deanna) of Terrebonne, Oregon; his grandchildren, Douglas Orwick (Lauren) and their son Everest, Liz Orwick Turner (Silas), and Sarah McKenzie Firth. He is also survived by his nephew, Duane Disque (Robania), his niece Cindy Griffith and numerous extended family members. Gene was predeceased by his parents, Rusty and Frances Orwick, his beloved wife, Dona, his brothers Kenneth and James Orwick, and his sister Kathleen Disque.

Gene's family invites those who knew and loved him to a Celebration of Life at the Heppner Elks Lodge #358 on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 11 AM. Arrangements are entrusted to Sweeney Payton Mortuary. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to friends, family, and the Hospice of Redmond for their exceptional care and support.

Gene Orwick lived a life filled with love, adventure, and dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.