Corky was born in Marion on July 1, 1931 to the late Arthur William and Ella Mae (Dickensheet) Oradat. On June 22, 2018 he peacefully passed away right beside the love of his life in Golden Living Center, Mishawaka.
Corky was a 1948 graduate of Marion High School where he played golf on the Marion Giants Golf Team. He served in the United States National Guard for 7 years during the Korean War. He met Mary Herring after seeing her many times departing the street car on North Washington Street. Corky had remarked to a friend, “I’m going to marry that girl one day…” and on April 8, 1951 the two married in Highland Avenue United Methodist Church where they were faithful and active members for many years. Mrs. Oradat survives in Mishawaka.
In the late 1980’s Corky retired as a department foreman for Anaconda after 40 years of service. While living in Marion, Corky was one of the founders of the Mississinewa River Ski Club. For many decades the Oradat family spent their free time on Little Barbee Lake and Sawmill Lake in Kosciusko County. He was a true laker and enjoyed skiing, boating and fishing. Corky was a talented craftsman and built skis and wooden speed boats. He also enjoyed golfing.
Corky will be remembered for being a loving and devoted husband to Mary and father to their children, Greg and Carla. His gentleness, kindness, patience and strength will forever be present in the lives he touched.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary B. Oradat, Mishawaka; children, Greg D. (Karla) Oradat, Pierceton; Carla D. Oradat Dawson, Mishawaka; four grandchildren, Greg Dawson, Tony Dawson, Latosha Kurtz, Mitchell Oradat; five great-grandchildren, Derrick Dawson, Leah Dawson, Lilly Dawson, Alivia Dawson, A.J. Dawson and one on the way!
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 from 10:30am-12:30pm in Owen-Weilert-Duncan Funeral Home, Marion Chapel, 2722 South Washington Street, Marion, Indiana. The funeral will begin at 12:30pm with Pastor Greg Jaggers officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Grant Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to South Bend Community Church, 60660 Old US 31, South Bend, Indiana 46614