June 28, 1936— Aug. 28, 2024
Keith LaVar Orr, 88, of Fort Macleod, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, in Cardston. Keith was born on June 28, 1936, in Orton to Ernest Orr and Mary Hornberger. He was the seventh child of eight.
Keith went to school in Orton, then Macleod and later graduated from Olds Agricultural College. He also attended SAIT in Calgary.
On April 14, 1962, Keith married Marlene Jay Louw, originally from Springs, South Africa, in the Cardston Temple. Together they lived in the Orton area where Keith farmed, raised cattle and hogs and ran businesses with his brother Wayne Orr.
Keith was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1957 he served a two-year mission in South Africa. He enjoyed many years working with the youth and in the Scouting program. He served as bishop in Fort Macleod for eight years. From 1993-’96 he served with Marlene as the mission president for the South Africa, Johannesburg mission. Keith later served as a sealer in the Cardston Temple and as the Fort Macleod Stake Patriarch.
Keith loved the outdoors, especially trail riding on his Tennessee Walkers. He was a problem-solver and could jimmy-rig anything. He was an avid reader and journal writer. He was often sought after for his easy conversation and his pearls of wisdom.
Keith is survived by his devoted wife, Marlene; his children Cindy Orr Ortland (Grant) of Oceanside, California and Jeffrey LaVar Orr (Kathy) of American Fork, Utah. He leaves behind seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Wayne Orr and sister, Marilyn Spencer.
Keith was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Alta, Garth, Don, Alma and Merle; as well as his sweet daughter-in-law, Marianne Rawlings.
The memorial service was held on Monday, Sept. 2, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the LDS Church, 643 20th St., Fort Macleod. Interment was in the Orton Cemetery prior to service.
To send a condolence and view the live-stream of the service please visit www.salmonandsons.ca.