Orlando "Corky" Cortese

Orlando “Corky” Cortese, 92, of Silver Bay, died Thursday, October 15, 2020 at CareFree Living.

Corky was born on July 31, 1928 to James and Mary (Donato) Cortese in Grand Rapids, grew up in Calumet before graduating from high school in Coleraine.  After enlisting in the Army and serving in Korea, Corky returned home and married Elizabeth Haag in 1950.  Together they made their home in Calumet before moving to Babbitt.  In 1955, the family moved to Silver Bay where Corky was employed by Reserve Mining as a general foreman until his retirement in 1984.

Corky was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and time outdoors and was especially proud of the cabin he built from a reclaimed barn in Beaver Valley.

Corky was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth in 1992 and brothers, Dominic and Angelo Cortese.

He is survived by his sons, Ron (Janet) and Michael (Sandy); daughters, Maria Cortese and Teresa (Dale) Patterson; grandchildren, Christopher, Dr. Jamie, and Sara Cortese, Jessica Klemmer, Nick Patterson, Patrick and Chris Hulett, and Lisa Martin; 15 great-grandchildren; and long-time companion, Sharon Kelley.

We want to thank family and friends for their visits with Corky Cortese while at Carefree.  Dad enjoyed them all.  A thank you, to all the organizations that came into Carefree and all other care facilities where they entertained the residents.  But most of all, a special THANK YOU to all of the caregivers at Carefree that kept Corky Cortese happy and safe during his stay at Carefree!  Cherish your time with your loved ones.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Friday, July 16, 2021 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Silver Bay.