Susan Smith Orloff

August 8, 1928-

October 29, 2024

Susan Smith Orloff, 96, originally from Cleveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2024, in Grand Junction with family by her side. Born on August 8, 1928, in Erie, Pennsylvania to Dave and Henriette Smith, Susan moved to Cleveland at the age of three where she spent her formative years.

After graduating high school, Susan attended Grove City College in Pennsylvania for three years. Her education laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable life dedicated to service and community.

Susan married Walter Orloff in Phoenix, Arizona in August of 1962, and the family then moved to Grand Junction in 1966, drawn by the beauty of the mountains and the valley and their love of nature.

Susan's devotion to the Episcopal Church was unwavering. She taught Sunday School for 25 years, served on the Vestry, and was a board member for the Church Camp at Ilium for 30 years. Her contributions extended to serving as a church camp cook and she was involved in various ladies’ guilds over the years. Beyond her church commitments, Susan generously volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the local library, and she served on boards for The League of Women Voters, Goodwill, and Hilltop House, as well as accumulated over 7,000 hours as a hospital volunteer, in addition to her 16 years of employment there.

When not engaged in community service, Susan pursued her many passions. She was an avid gardener who often had to be called inside as evening fell. She delighted in various crafts, particularly tole painting and photography, where she loved to photograph flowers and landscapes. Susan loved feeding and caring for the many birds in her backyard. She also found joy in cooking and baking for friends and family. Susan and her husband traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada and participated in numerous Elder Hostel courses. She was also an active bridge player for more than 60 years.

Susan is survived by her loving husband, Walt, and daughters Bobbie Bullen (Chuck Harbaugh) and Becky (Steve) Kumm. She was preceded in death by her daughter Susan in 1996. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life service will be held at St. Matthews Episcopal Church on April 25th at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Susan's name to St. Matthews Episcopal Church.

Susan's life was a testament to the impact one person can have through dedication, service, and love. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.