Lorraine Joseph Orrick

Lorraine J. Orrick, age 99 (just 38 days short of his 100th birthday) passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025. He was born on December 3, 1925 in Gays Mills, WI area to Alvin and Allie (Campbell) Orrick. He attended Gays Mills High School and graduated in 1943.

Lorraine met Ruth Millard on a blind date arranged by two close friends and were married on June 20, 1953 at the First United Methodist Church in Whitewater, WI. They made their home on the Orrick family farm where they raised their family in the Kickapoo Valley.

Lorraine nurtured and expanded his farming and Hereford cattle operations, showcasing his commitment to agriculture. He took immense pride in being awarded not only the State Future Farmers Award but also the National American Farmer Degree, the highest honor a member can achieve.

While the farm and valley held a special place in his heart, Lorraine was deeply involved in various community activities. He served on the Richland Grant Telephone Cooperative for over 50 years, including 27 years as president of the board. Additionally, he was president of the State Telephone Cooperative Association for five years and an appointed member of the National Government Affairs Committee for seven years. His dedication led him to attend numerous legislative conferences in Washington, DC.

Lorraine served on the board for the Farm and Home Administration also served on the board of the United Methodist Church in Gays Mills. He represented Tracy’s Seeds and sold insurance for Rural Mutual Insurance Company, among many other activities too numerous to list.

It is evident that Lorraine's primary goal in life was to constantly improve himself while serving others. He embodied strong principles and lived by the philosophy of treating others as he wished to be treated. Known for his kindness and patience, he always sought to help whenever and wherever he could. Lorraine placed immense trust in others, believing in their integrity.

As an exceptionally loving father and husband, Lorraine prioritized his family above all else. His quiet, warm personality and natural leadership drew people from all walks of life to him. Rarely raising his voice or speaking negatively, he consistently looked for the good in others. Lorraine had a thirst for knowledge and sought to learn from the world around him. His love for life was reciprocated, allowing him to enjoy many fulfilling years.

Lorraine is survived by his children Beatrice (Chuck) Karabin of Sun Prairie and Chip (Darlene) Orrick of DeForest; grandchildren Beth (Caleb) Karabin, Matt (Aly) Karabin, Jenn (Jack) Wendtland, and Justin (Annie) Orrick; and five great-grandchildren Cole and Dawson Wendtland and Henry, Lucy, and Claire Orrick. He is further survived by the Millard and Simes families and many dear friends.

Lorraine was preceded in death by his wife Ruth; son Barry; his parents Alvin and Allie; in-laws Bea and Ernie Kleimenhagen, Toots (Frances) and Lance Simes, and Chet and Harriet Millard.

Private services will be held

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Dale Meixner of the North Windsor United Methodist Church, the staffs at Hyland Park and Hyland Crossings of Sun Prairie, and Agrace Hospice Care of Fitchburg.

Cress Funeral Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, WI 53590

608-837-9054