Birth date: Jul 25, 1934 Death date: Feb 20, 2014
Thomas Frank Orthman, Sr. passed away at 1:20 p. m. February 20, 2014. He was born July 25, 1934 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of Wilmer Herman Orthman and Hester Mary Gronau Orthman. They preceded him in death. He left to cheri Read Obituary
Tom was a significant leader and mentor in my ministry over the past 15 years at St. Michael. He sponsored me in Rotary, share valuable insights, and lead our St. Michael Foundation board. He and Dot were always befriending my family and making key community connections for me. We were blessed by this man of God who lead by example and in humble service above self! My prayers are with Dot and the family. In Christ, Bob Ziegler
Tom was a well respected community leader…a good man. His work in Rotary over many years has impacted people all over the world. He will be sorely missed.My prayers are with Tom's family.Ron Riley
Lit a candle in memory of Thomas Frank Orthman
In memory of my "best" friend of high school days at Woodburn High School in Woodburn, IN. I have many memories of our days together. Everything from tearing down engines, to going through the country side picking up metal and old fencing to get spending money. We shared that with one other friend. He would ride my motorcycle. He only had two speeds on it, stop and wide open. I finally returned it to my uncle, who I was buying it from for fear Tom would kill himself. Our friendship was interrupted when he fell for a pretty young lady, we called her "Dot." But that was okay, the same diseased hit me a short time later. We joined the Navy Reserves together. He served two years active. My time did not come up and I served 12 years in the Reserved only. Bonnie and I hope the very best for "Dot" and the family during this time. Your friend in Christ,Pastor Phil Harris and Bonnie
Dot, ever since Karen called we have been thinking of you and praying for you and your family. Classmates have been in touch with each other to share loving memories of Tom and you. You both are wonderful examples of Christian love and charity. Tom and I were confirmed together at Christ Lutheran Church in Woodburn. He was always respected and admired by fellow classmates. You both did so much for so many. We always enjoyed worshiping at your church and attending your Bible Class afterwards. We appreciated and enjoyed staying at your Penthouse Suite. You both hosted our class reunion. So many wonderful memories. May our loving Heavenly Father be with you and your wonderful family as you grieve the loss of such a wonderful human being.Arlene Scheiwe Krueckeberg
