Thomas Mitchell Orlik

Thomas Mitchell Orlik, born July 7, 1947, passed away on July 26, 2026. He will be remembered with love by those who knew him and cherished for the impact he made throughout his life.

Thomas lived a life marked by dedication, service, and quiet strength. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring after 24 years of honorable service. He began his military career as a photojournalist retiring as a Military News Broadcaster, roles that reflected both his skill and his gift for storytelling. While stationed in Korea in 1978, his daughter Jennifer remembers him serving as the DJ for the Air Force Base, sharing music and personality with those around him. Among his many accomplishments, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Outstanding Unit Award, and the National Defense Service Medal, to name a few. His passion for photography continued throughout his life, capturing the world around him with curiosity, care, and appreciation.

After retirement, Thomas opened a stunt kite business, a passion he loved sharing with family and friends. His wife Nadine always called it his hobby, but with a smile. He found joy in teaching others to fly and often said it was “therapy for his soul.” He also loved to go fishing and could often be found tinkering with many of the newest technologies. His presence brought comfort and meaning to his family, friends, and community, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nadine Orlik and his daughters: Jennifer Winfield (Michael Winfield), Regina Huber, Lisa Weist and Lorrie Jordan. He is also survived by his grandchildren Joshua & Rebekah Winfield, Travis Wiggins, Cecilia Cherry, Steven Corbett, Levi Weist, Kaitlyn Weist and Donovan Weist, Brittani Jackson, Michael Thomas Thompson, Morgan Thompson and Olivia Hendrix. He was also a proud Grandpa to ten great grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of love, resilience, and compassion.

He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd & Barbara Orlik, his brother Paul Orlik and grandchildren Matthew & Mitchell Wiggins. All whose memories remained close to his heart.

Visitation is Monday, August 3, 2026, 9:00 am until 10:00 am at Indiana Funeral Care, Greenwood Chapel.

Funeral service will begin at 10:00 am.

Burial to immediately follow at 1:00 pm at Marion National Cemetery, Marion, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made online at https://give.michaeljfox.org