Thaddeus J. Orzel

Ted (Thaddeus) Orzel, 99 years, 8 months and 9 days, of North Syracuse died on Monday, February 9, 2026. He grew up on Syracuse’s East side and attended Transfiguration Church and School. After graduating from Eastwood High School, he entered the US Army, serving during WWII in the low countries and France. Due to an injury, he was transferred from the Army Infantry to Food Service. Following an honorable discharge, he returned home and married Irene Podolak; a union of 60 years. Initially employed as a glazier with Syracuse Glass, he moved to North Syracuse and began working at Sweetheart Market, eventually becoming the manager of the produce and beverage departments. In addition, for many years he was a patrolman with the North Syracuse Police Department. His work was his pride. Ted was a volunteer with the North Syracuse Fire Department and a faithful member of St. Rose of Lima Church, North Syracuse. A man of simple tastes and pleasures, his family, faith, job, and being a provider were the foundations of his life. He enjoyed cooking. His table was never empty, and he welcomed anyone with his potato salad (secret recipe), chili, and Polish staples (from stuffed cabbage to chicken soup). He was “creative” with any recipe. Predeceased by his parents, John and Clara; his sisters, Theresa, Rita, and Virginia; and his wife, Irene, he is survived by his son, Rev. David J. Orzel, a niece, Mary Ann Begay, and a nephew, Paul Edward Kolokowski, who lovingly looked after him in his later, homebound years. A sincere thanks to the physicians, nurses, aids, and rehab staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital and at Loretto. The wake will be on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 4 to 6 pm at Fergerson Funeral Home, 215 South Main Street, North Syracuse. A prayer will be offered at the funeral home Thursday at 9:45 am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by the Rev. David J. Orzel at 10:30 am at St. Rose of Lima Church, 407 South Main Street, North Syracuse. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, DeWitt. Instead of flowers, Mass cards or a donation, in Ted’s memory, to a favorite charity of your choice will be appreciated.

Tributes

Thaddeus J. Orzel

February 9, 2026