Ernest “Pop” A. Orlando, age 95, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, March 19, 2018 in Lombard, IL, surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of the late Phyllis and the late Marie. Loving father of Eileen Mitchell, the late Ernest (Geraldine) Orlando, Diane (Alan) Imielinski, James (Marlene) Rentas and Nicholas (Kathy) Rentas. Devoted grandfather of 13, great-grandfather of 26 and great-great-grandfather of 2. Dear uncle, cousin and friend to many. Ernest was a devoted family man, long time member of the Cement Masons Local 502, a volunteer at Hinsdale Hospital, host of an annual family picnic for immediate and extended family and enjoyed listening to the piano player at Von Maur. Visitation 3-9pm Friday March 23rd at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 301 75th St., Downers Grove. Prayers 9:15am Saturday March 24th from the funeral home to St. Joseph Church in Downers Grove for Mass at 10am. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Funeral home phone 630-964-6500
My Dear Uncle Ernie, it was his time. My dads youngest brother, who lived a full life, always smiling. I remember him loving to be around family and friends and how much he enjoyed “The Orlando Picnic”. He now is at peace leaving behind memories that will never be forgotten. I wish everyone could have an Uncle Ernie in their life. Love you Uncle!
Laura Orlando Siracusa
My Grandfather, My Pop – I am gonna miss you. I already am. This world needs more people like you. I am going to miss you and all of the conversations we had that included old family history, Work stories, politics, or even how we would bounce idea’s off each other on how to keep our lawns green each spring and summer. You were an inspiration to me – and i am who i am partly because of you!
It’s not gonna be easy to look to my left and not see you sitting at Mom’s kitchen table on Sunday mornings. Mom and i will figure it out though. Love you Pop!
My prayers go out to family and friends. It was really a pleasure getting to know Ernie. As we volunteered on the same shift at Hinsdale Hospital together, I found him to be sweet, funny, and dedicated. He loved his family and talked about them often. He will be missed.
Such a fun-loving gentleman that, because Matt always talked about “Pop”, I tended to also think of as “Pop”. You were an inspiration and admired by us because of your lively, active life style. Obviously you were loved by many and will be greatly missed.
When you came to KY for Matt & Erin’s wedding, you got such a kick out of the way we say “y’all”. You practiced with me several times but didn’t quite get the hang of it. So rest in peace Mr. Orlando (Pop) and when we meet again in Heaven you can greet us with “Welcome home y’all”.
Uncle Ernest, you always had a kind smile. May the angels lead you into paradise; may the martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem. May you rest in peace.
My dear Poppy,
Since my earliest memories of you sitting at our kitchen table every Saturday morning talking with your son eating fontinel, pepperoni , bread and always a shot of scotch. I thought you and my dad figured it all out. Weather it was what type of tree to plant where, how to put down tiles, where to find the best deals, or what happened in your daily lives, I felt secure because I always believed in you . As the years passed on, and I got older, as a teen and adult , I looked forward to those saturdays you’d walk in our door with your famous whistle , i realized you’ve been imprinting in me all those many years ; those values, ethics, and love
That i can’t thank you enough
I know you know this, but I wanted to share this
I know my dad knew it was you when you entered through those gates, hearing your famous whistle, with your son sitting there, table set, with that same fontinella, pepperoni , bread and your J&B
So, until we sit at that table again
I loved you dearly
Lisa
P.S. I’m sorry I hid my Easter basket from you
Dad,
I’m jealous because I’m not with you and my husband right now.
I know you are having the most wonderful time
I will miss you and my life will never be the same
I’ve always loved you since the day Ernie introduced me to you
You were the greatest father in law anyone could’ve asked for
I got very lucky
I love you
Your daughter in law
Gerry
I will miss seeing Ernie in the chair near the piano at Von Maur. He was such a nice man and I enjoyed playing songs for him. I’m sorry this post is so late. I just learned of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.