Josephine C. (Kos) Orasin

Josephine C. Orasin, 98, passed peacefully at the home of her Granddaughter, Carolyn Ford, on October 12, in Towson, Maryland. Josephine was predeceased by her husband Frank Orasin, her son Michael Orasin, parents Anton and Josephine Kos, brother Tony Kos and sister Ann Payne. She is survived by her sons Frank(Carolyn) and Charles (Donna) Orasin, daughters Marianne(Bob) Ford, Linda Orasin, Patty (Dave) Zylka, and daughter-in-law LeeAnn Orasin, Grandchildren Bob, Carolyn and Michael Ford, David and Kelly Orasin, Stephanie Geiger, Jennifer Marcello, Sarah Gililland, Ashley Orasin, Jaclyn and David Zylka, Great Grandchildren Finley and Wyatt Geiger, also sisters Vickie Stefko, Mayme O’Pecko, and brother- in -law Paul Payne, and beloved nieces and nephews.

Josie will be remembered for her beautiful and nearly ever-present smile, her quick wit and sense of humor, the twinkle in her pretty blue eyes, her generosity of spirit, her deep and abiding faith, and the joy with which she lived each day. Not surprisingly, her life was filled with many lasting friendships. The women who were her neighbors, those she met through work, volunteering at her church, and through clubs and activities, became her extended family. She treasured these friendships - many of which lasted for more than half a century. With them, Josie shared laughter, joy and sorrow, fun times, support and encouragement. They were all very special to her and held close in her heart. Josie will also be remembered as a hard-worker. The necessity and ability to work hard, a reality of growing up in poverty, was carried by Josie as a mantle of pride. She frequently said - "I like to work" - and she did. She started working outside of her home at the age of 13 and did not fully retire until the age of 95. Her jobs included housekeeper, waitress, and cafeteria worker. With each new job she made new friends. After her husband passed away she became a licensed beautician and opened a small salon in her home. It was not uncommon, especially for older clients, to leave Josie's shop with a warm meal to take home in addition to a new hairdo and a big smile. Josie was not 'all work' though - she also loved a good party. She would not let her advancing age stand in the way of a good time and was frequently the last person on the dance floor. She was proud of her Slovenian heritage and traditional polkas played on her kitchen radio. Her home was filled with music and laughter, great food and wine, and the occasional Manhattan. While Josie was fortunate to travel extensively during her lifetime and see many beautiful places, she was also truly content in her own home. She enjoyed sitting on her front porch, tending her garden, treating loved ones to a home-cooked meal and one of her famous apple pies, and decorating for each season and holiday. Josie was a homemaker in the truest sense of the word - she had the ability to create a warm and welcoming place to gather and celebrate. She loved her family and cherished her time with them. Josie lived not only a long life, but also a very full and inspiring life. She will be dearly missed.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, October 19th at 10 am in St. Joseph's Church, Forest City. Private burial to follow. Local arrangements are through the Kevin M. Lesjack Funeral Home, Forest City.

Donations may be made in Josie’s name to St. Ambrose Church, Washington Avenue, Endicott, NY 13760, or to Mom’s House 770 Harry L. Drive, Johnson City, NY 20019, or to MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, Center for Successful Aging, 5601 Loch Raven Blvd, RMB 502, Baltimore, MD 21239.

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