James Paul Orwin, 82, of Pittsboro passed away at the UNC Hospice House on Monday, September 9, 2024, with his loving family by his side after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Jim was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 13, 1941 to the late Stanley and Irene Orzechowski.

He was also preceded in death by his sister Kathleen Hitchcock.

He graduated from Pius XI High School in 1959. Jim was a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army, retiring after 25 years of service. He was an Infantry Ranger and Paratrooper and served in Vietnam. Upon retirement he worked for the NC Department of Prisons as the Administrator in Raleigh and Butner. Jim was an Eagle Scout, an avid Green Bay Packers fan and ran marathons on several continents, including in New York, Paris, and Berlin.

He volunteered with Chatham County Senior Center delivering Meals on Wheels for many years. Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Paulette. He leaves behind his son, Michael Orwin and wife Stephanie of Elon, daughter Bethony Holt and husband Randy of Siler City, along with 2 nieces and their families,10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the UNC Hospice House in Pittsboro.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11am at Chatham Memorial Park in Siler City.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the SECU Jim & Betsy Brian Hospice House of UNC Health Care, check payable to UNC Health Foundation (memo line Hospice) and mail to UNC Health Foundation 123 W. Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC 27516.

Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.com.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Orwin family.